CAIRO: The spokesperson for Hamas’ armed wing Al-Qassam Brigades, Abu Ubaida, announced on Monday that the group has issued new instructions to guards on how to handle hostages if Israeli forces approach their locations in Gaza.
On Sunday, the Israeli military reported the recovery of the bodies of six hostages from a tunnel in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, claiming that Hamas was responsible for their deaths. Ubaida said his group holds Israel responsible for the deaths.
He said the new instructions, which he didn’t detail, were given to guards of hostages after a rescue operation by Israel in June. At that time, Israeli forces freed four hostages in a deadly raid in which dozens of Palestinians, including women and children, were killed.
“Netanyahu’s insistence to free prisoners through military pressure, instead of sealing a deal means they will be returned to their families in shrouds. Their families must choose whether they want them dead or alive,” he said.
Israel and Hamas have failed to conclude a deal that would end the war and see the release of Israeli and foreign hostages held in Gaza in return for many Palestinians jailed by Israel.
Hamas wants any agreement to end the war and get Israeli forces out of Gaza while Netanyahu says the war can only end once Hamas is defeated.
Hamas armed wing says new instructions were given to guards of Israeli hostages in Gaza
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Hamas armed wing says new instructions were given to guards of Israeli hostages in Gaza
- Abu Ubaida said the new instructions were given to guards of hostages after a rescue operation by Israel in June
- At that time, Israeli forces freed four hostages in a deadly raid in which dozens of Palestinians were killed
30,000 people attend annual Iftar celebration in Cairo’s Al-Matariya district
- Local residents organize the massive event, which extends across 20 streets and is one of the largest of its kind in the Egyptian capital, for a 12th consecutive year
- Participants include public figures, ministers and foreign guests; entertainment includes artistic and cultural performances highlighting Egyptian heritage
CAIRO: An estimated 30,000 people attended an iftar celebration in Cairo’s Al-Matariya district that takes place every year during Ramadan to boost community spirit and the sense of togetherness.
The event on Wednesday, one of the largest of its kind in the Egyptian capital, was organized by people from the neighborhood for a 12th consecutive year and reflected their strong spirit of cooperation. It traditionally takes place on the 15th day of the holy month.
Aside from local residents, the participants included public figures, ministers and guests from other countries, including ambassadors, reflecting a spirit of solidarity and communal celebration that characterizes the holy month in Egypt.
The iftar celebration extended across 20 streets in the district, which residents decorated with large banners featuring the slogan “Ramadan in Matariya” and other welcoming messages. One street was reserved for volunteers who had worked for hours preparing the thousands of meals served up at the event.
The food was not the only attraction; groups affiliated with the Ministry of Culture delivered artistic and cultural performances highlighting Egyptian heritage for the massive crowds. The event created an atmosphere of great joy and a glorious tribute to Ramadan.
The Egyptian Red Crescent had ambulances and medical teams stationed throughout the area in case anyone fell ill.
Residents expressed delight at the remarkable turnout.
“The story of the annual iftar began 12 years ago with the participation of residents, but it quickly turned into a popular gathering attended by Egyptians and foreigners alike, and images of the event have been carried by media outlets around the world,” Ahmed, a volunteer at the event, told Arab News.
More than 2,000 volunteers helped organize the event, he added, reflecting the strong community spirit. The organizers wore red “Ramadan in Matariya” uniforms, and the preparations for the event started before the start of the holy month when artists began to paint murals and messages of welcome.
Saif, another volunteer, said he looks forward to the event every year with great anticipation.
“Everyone participates with love and dedication to ensure the success of this gathering,” he added.
A joyful atmosphere filled the streets during the event. Some families watched from their balconies, and as the sun set and the time to break the day’s fast arrived, festive balloons were released across the area, adding to the celebratory mood.
