Hamas’s Last Bastion: What the Fall of Jabalya Could Mean for A Hostage Deal - Analysis

Jabalya, in the northern Gaza Strip, has become a symbol of heroism for Hamas, and the IDF believes that the fall of the refugee camp could open the door to advancing a hostage deal. It is estimated that approximately 3,000 terrorists have regrouped in the camp.  

The IDF’s 162nd Division executed a tactical maneuver that resulted in encircling Jabalya from the south and creating a barrier between Hamas terrorists in Gaza City and those in Jabalya. 

So far, some 1,200 terrorists have been eliminated, and an equal number have surrendered to the IDF. Several dozen are believed to have escaped southward through the crossings. The IDF’s current challenge is dealing with the most hardened core of Hamas terrorists — the “jihadists,” who are expected to fight to the last bullet.  

The IDF believes that the final fall of Jabalya will usher Hamas into a new era and ultimately enable the renewal of hostage deal efforts. This is why Mossad chief David Barnea, Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, and the military leadership have been urging the political echelon in recent days to take advantage of the emerging situation in northern Gaza to advance efforts for the release of the 101 hostages held by Hamas.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently reiterated an offer to lavishly pay Gazans who turn over Israeli hostages, upping the reward to $5 million for each captive, after previously suggesting Israel would pay “several million” for their recovery. (JPost/VFI News)

“Our Heavenly Father, we continue to pray for our hostages who are still being held by Hamas. We pray in Yeshua’s name that You hear our and their families' pleas and rescue them as soon as possible. We trust You and we pray for their physical and mental health. Please, help them leave the awful environment they are held in and rejoice with their families once again. Thank You for keeping them alive to this day.”