No Northern Gaza Movement Until Hostage Arbel Yehud Is Freed

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his decision to block northern movement in Gaza through Netzarim until meaningful progress is made in securing the release of hostage Arbel Yehud.

Hamas violated the hostage agreement by failing to prioritize the release of civilian women hostages, leaving Yehud still in captivity despite expectations she would be freed in the latest phase of the deal. In response, Israel halted movement in northern Gaza, emphasizing that Gazan passage will not resume until Yehud is released. Reports suggest that the release of dual Israeli-American hostages may also be imminent, further intensifying negotiations.

Israel’s Coordinator for Prisoners and Missing Persons, Gal Hirsch, has been in continuous communication with Yehud’s family, assuring them of ongoing efforts. According to Saudi channel Al-Hadath, Israel has demanded Yehud’s release within two days.

Arbel Yehud is Alive

Hamas has confirmed that Yehud is alive, with officials telling Al Jazeera she will be released by Saturday. A spokesperson from Islamic Jihad also stated that Yehud is in the custody of the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of Islamic Jihad. In a statement designed to justify delays in her release, a terrorist source falsely claimed that Yehud is a “soldier” linked to Israel’s “space program.” Israel has dismissed these allegations as baseless lies aimed at excusing her delayed release.

Israeli officials dismissed Hamas’s claims of being unable to influence Islamic Jihad, highlighting their close collaboration, as seen in a recent display of force at Palestine Square in Gaza. They reiterated that Hamas must leverage its authority to ensure Yehud’s release. Drawing on the Bible’s teaching in Deuteronomy 23:21— “If you make a vow to the Lord your God, do not be slow to pay it, for the Lord your God will certainly demand it of you and you will be guilty of sin”—Israel insists on adherence to agreements. Failure to meet these terms will not only compromise the agreement but also reinforce Israel’s resolve to hold Hamas accountable for its actions.