But it seems inevitable that at some point a choice will have to be made between the hostages and military victory. Even if Israel locates Hamas leaders, any operation would mean almost certain death for the hostages that likely surround them. Israel has successfully rescued three hostages since the start of the war, all of whom were aboveground. Israeli troops killed three hostages by mistake, and Hamas says several others were killed in airstrikes or failed rescue operations. It would be an extremely costly victory, with over 30,000 Palestinians killed and the total destruction of much of Gaza.

Source: ABC News March 06, 2024 15:43 UTC