Israeli Soldier Killed in Gaza - Families of Abductees Mark 100 Days with Tunnel Installation

In a tragic turn of events on Saturday evening, Major (res.) Dan Weidenbaum, 24, from Ra'anana, lost his life in a battle in the center of the Gaza Strip. Weidenbaum, a fighter in Battalion 5037 of the Yiftach Brigade, was killed, leaving his family in grief. Simultaneously, a reserve officer from the 7155th battalion of Uzbat Hod HaHanit was seriously injured in a battle in the southern Gaza Strip. Additional casualties included a fighter in the Shu'ali Ha'Marum Reserve and an officer from the 605th Engineering Battalion of Uzbat Barak, both seriously injured in Thursday's battles in the central Gaza Strip.

To mark 100 days since the abduction, the families of the abductees unveiled an installation simulating the harsh conditions of captivity in Gaza. The tunnel installation, situated in Hatofim Square at the Tel Aviv Museum, aims to raise awareness about the difficult circumstances faced by the 136 abductees and captives held by Hamas. The families implore for their release.

18-year-old Ofir Engel, released after 54 days in Hamas captivity, joined the families in the tunnel installation, emphasizing the urgency of the abductees' release. Engels invited the public to a rally organized by the abductees' families starting that evening.

Family members of those still in captivity shared their experiences inside the tunnel, expressing concern for their loved ones' well-being. The installation serves as a tangible representation of the challenges faced by the captives.

Tomorrow marks 100 days since the October 7 massacre, with a 24-hour rally beginning in Hatofim Square, featuring performances by various artists, including Avitar Banai, Neta Barzilai, Omer Adam, Sarit Haddad, and others. Protests and rallies across the country are scheduled, accompanied by a 100-minute strike starting at 12 noon on Sunday, endorsed by the Histadrut.

Israeli officials reportedly informed Egypt of a planned IDF operation along the Gaza border, aiming to evacuate Palestinian elements from crossings along the "Philadelphia axis" and position Israeli forces in their place. The eight-kilometer axis stretches between the border with Israel and the Mediterranean Sea. The situation remains tense as the region grapples with ongoing conflicts and the families of the abductees continue their tireless efforts for their loved ones' release.

Nearly 100 days after their abduction to Gaza, there is hope for the 136 abductees who are set to receive crucial medicines. The Prime Minister's Office, led by Mossad head David Barnea under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's guidance, announced a breakthrough. The move against Qatar has paved the way for the introduction of life-saving medicines to the abductees in the Gaza Strip.

The Mossad's direct and efficient engagement with Qatar has resulted in a formula where, in exchange for Israel delivering humanitarian aid, including essential medicines, Hamas will facilitate the transfer of these drugs to the abductees. The medicines, deemed "life-saving," include treatments for chronic conditions such as asthma, heart issues, and blood pressure.

It's worth noting that the families of the abductees were not informed in advance about the development, learning about it through the media. Skepticism persists among them, with demands for visual proof that the abductees do indeed receive the promised drugs before any transfers to Gaza occur.

This breakthrough comes amid ongoing negotiations for a broader hostage deal, although no significant progress has been reported on that front. The efficiency of the Mossad's dealings with Qatar highlights a continuous and direct diplomatic channel between the two nations.

While the families emphasize the urgent need for the abductees to receive necessary medication, talks reported in the "New York Times" suggest ongoing efforts by Qatari mediators. These efforts include discussions with both Hamas and Israel to not only ensure the delivery of essential medicines but also to increase the overall amount of medical aid entering the Gaza Strip during the ongoing conflict.

Hamas has confirmed its involvement in the discussions, with senior member Husam Badran describing the talks as proceeding in a "very positive" manner. The international community is closely watching these developments, and pressure is mounting for the immediate release of the abductees beyond the provision of medicines.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on tangible actions and proof that the abductees will indeed receive the vital medical assistance they desperately need.