Israel offers Gazans safety, cash reward for information on hostages

In a statement, the Israeli military said it contacted Gazan civilians "through various channels," including dropping leaflets in neighborhoods across the Strip.

 A copy of the leaflets dropped by the IDF for Gazans offering financial rewards for information on the hostages taken during Operation Swords of Iron (photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
A copy of the leaflets dropped by the IDF for Gazans offering financial rewards for information on the hostages taken during Operation Swords of Iron
(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The IDF is offering Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip safety from Hamas and cash rewards in exchange for information on the whereabouts of at least 222 Israeli hostages.

In a statement, the Israeli military said it contacted Gazan civilians "through various channels," including dropping leaflets in neighborhoods across the Strip.

The leaflets, dropped by Israeli Air Force fighter jets, urged Gazans to contact the IDF through either widespread messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, or through a secured line, for those in fear of repercussions by Hamas.

IDF to Gazans: We're offering you a better future

The IDF, in Arabic, promised Gazans "the utmost effort to provide you and your loved ones safety, as well as a financial reward.

"We promise you complete anonymity," the IDF wrote in the message to Gazans. 

Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper (also known as Nurit Yitzhak) who were held hostages by Palestinian Hamas militants, are released by the militants, in this video screengrab obtained by Reuters on October 23, 2023. (credit: Al-Qassam Brigades via REUTERS)
Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper (also known as Nurit Yitzhak) who were held hostages by Palestinian Hamas militants, are released by the militants, in this video screengrab obtained by Reuters on October 23, 2023. (credit: Al-Qassam Brigades via REUTERS)

"If you wish a better future for you and your children, take a stand and send us substantial information about hostages in your area."

"If you wish a better future for you and your children...send us substantial information about hostages in your area."

IDF leaflets dropped across Gaza

Gazans reportedly tear up leaflets in Khan Younis

People taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza collected the leaflets and tore them up after they were dropped by Israeli planes.

Referring to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one Palestinian man said: "We do not care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west."

Reuters contributed to this report.