Hamas says Israel's goal to eliminate them is 'doomed to failure'

(Patria) - Hamas's military wing said on Thursday that Israel's goal to eliminate the group in Gaza is "doomed to failure", AFP reported.

Abu Obeida, spokesman for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, also said in an audio recording that any further release of hostages held in Gaza depends on the "cessation of aggression".

Neither the continuation of Israel's offensive nor "direct military operations" will bring the hostages home, he said. "It is not possible to release the enemy prisoners alive except by entering into negotiations," he added.

According to Israeli authorities, 129 hostages remain in Gaza.

Abu Obeida said there is "no alternative" to negotiations, warning that Israeli fire could lead to the deaths of more hostages.

Shortly after the spokesman's recording, Hamas's armed wing also released a video showing three Israeli hostages, claiming they were killed in Israeli attacks.

The head of Hamas visited Egypt this week, raising hopes for another ceasefire and a deal to release the remaining hostages, although talks have yet to lead to a new agreement.