Hamas on Saturday placed provocative banners at the site prepared for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, with one sign reading, "We are the war’s next day."
The message appeared to be directed at U.S. President Donald Trump, following his controversial proposal to relocate Gaza residents to neighboring countries while the enclave is rebuilt.
Trump’s plan has been widely rejected by Palestinians and the broader Arab world, who liken it to the 1948 displacement of Palestinians during Israel’s establishment—a historical event they refer to as the Nakba or "catastrophe."
Alongside the banners, Hamas also displayed a large image of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, captioned "Total victory", mocking his repeated claims that Israel is on the verge of achieving decisive success in its ongoing military campaign against the terrorist group.
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Hamas terrorist awaits hostage release ceremony in Gaza on Saturday
(Photo: Hatem Khaled / Reuters)
Preparations in Gaza for release of hostages
(Video: Al Jazeera)
The display took place as Hamas prepared to release three Israeli hostages—Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi and Or Levy—as part of the ongoing cease-fire and prisoner exchange agreement.
The three, held captive for over 16 months, were expected to be transferred to the Red Cross before being reunited with their families in Israel.