JERUSALEM, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a press conference Saturday night that although he and the nation mourn the “unbearable tragedy” of three hostages killed by Israeli troops in Gaza, the nation will continue the battle, insisting that only military pressure can secure the release of the hostages and eliminate the threat from Hamas.
The hostages were mistakenly shot by soldiers Friday while wandering near the Shijaiya section of Gaza City, an area of heavy fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas. They were shirtless and holding white cloth – a sign of surrender. They were also reported to be yelling for help in Hebrew.
Appearing with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, Netanyahu said, “When I was updated about the terrible tragedy – it struck me hard. Alon (Shamriz), Samar (Talalka) and Yotam (Haim) survived hell for 72 days, they were almost one step from freedom, they had touched redemption and then disaster struck. It broke my heart. It broke the entire country’s heart.”
An Israeli military official, speaking anonymously, said the hostages likely escaped or were abandoned by Hamas, according to The Associated Press.
IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi ackowledged that the shootings were “against our rules of engagement,”
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