Hamas issued a sharp rebuke on Tuesday against Israeli far‑right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir following the release of a video in which the minister appears to threaten the life of Palestinian detainee Hassan Salameh. The clip, posted on social media by Ben Gvir, shows him stating that he would kill the prisoner, prompting immediate condemnation from the Gaza‑based organization.
In a statement released shortly after the video circulated, Hamas described the footage as “provocative” and framed it as another instance of what it termed Israel’s “flagrant violation of all international laws.” The movement argued that the minister’s remarks constitute a criminal act and reflect a broader pattern of intimidation against Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas emphasized that such threats would not weaken the resolve of Salameh or other incarcerated members of the organization. The statement asserted that the group would continue to apply “every possible effort, at all levels and through all means” to secure the release of its members held in Israeli detention facilities.
The incident adds to a series of recent tensions between Israeli officials and Palestinian factions, with the former often defending security measures as necessary while the latter accuses Israel of breaching humanitarian norms. International observers have previously raised concerns about the treatment of Palestinian prisoners, citing allegations of torture, administrative detention and denial of due process.
Ben Gvir, who has been a vocal advocate for hard‑line policies against Palestinian militants, has faced criticism from human‑rights groups for his rhetoric and actions. The video’s emergence has reignited calls for accountability and for adherence to international legal standards governing the treatment of detainees.
No official response from the Israeli government or the minister’s office was reported at the time of writing. The situation remains under close watch by regional analysts, who note that such exchanges can further inflame already volatile relations between the two sides.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/hamas-hits-back-ben-gvir-after-video-shows-him-threatening-palestinian.