Hamas ‘Gift Bags' Given to Released Hostages: What Was Inside?
During the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas on Sunday, a striking detail caught attention: each hostage was handed a paper bag bearing the logo of Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades. The moment, captured on video, was part of the group's highly publicized handover to the Red Cross in Gaza City.
According to a representative of hostage Romi Gonen's family, the bags contained a certificate, a necklace, and photos. Israeli media reports suggest the photos depicted moments from the hostages' time in captivity. Israel's Internal Security Agency (Shin Bet) later confiscated the materials for investigation.
Hamas also presented a document labeled 'Acknowledgment of Receipt of Israeli Prisoners,' signed by a Red Cross representative. The group's display, including a militant-lined escort through Gaza City, was widely seen as an effort to project legitimacy amid ongoing conflict.
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