Israel’s state broadcaster KAN News has reported that Hamas is using Israeli hostages as “human shields.”
Citing Palestinian sources, the outlet said Hamas has begun moving hostages out of tunnels, placing some in residential homes and others in tents. The move is reportedly aimed at deterring Israeli military strikes.
According to Israeli officials, around 50 people are currently held as hostages in Gaza, though only about 20 are believed to still be alive.
KAN News also reported that Hamas is trying to prevent residents of Gaza City from leaving, in order to “advance its own objectives.” In recent days, Israel ordered civilians in the area to move south. International media report that approximately 300,000 people have already fled the city.
Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported Monday morning, September 15, that at least 10 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City.
The escalation follows a visit by U.S. Interior Secretary Marco Rubio to Israel on Sunday, during which the conflict in Gaza further intensified.
