Hamas militants have used the former home of their former leader Yahya Sinwar in Khan Younis as a stage for another hostage exchange, attracting crowds, The Jerusalem Post reports.
The transfer of the hostages, including Israeli soldier Agam Berger and civilians Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses, comes amid growing tensions between the parties to the conflict.
The symbolism of place: a message from Hamas?
The day before, militants from Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, had stepped up security at Sinwar’s home, likely in a demonstrative move ahead of the exchange. Footage released by Hamas shows crowds gathering in front of the house of the former leader of the group, who, according to Israel, is a key figure in Hamas’ military leadership.
At the same time, a stage and banners with the names of Israeli Defence Forces units were seen erected in Jabaliya (northern Gaza).
Hamas is actively covering the hostage transfer process on its Telegram channels, which may indicate the group’s information campaign as part of the exchange process.
Amidst the ongoing conflict and complex negotiations, the exchange site – the former home of one of the most influential Hamas leaders – can be not only a location but also a political signal.
