Hamas 'moves hostages above ground to use them as human shields ahead of Israel's ground operation in Gaza'

 Hamas has moved hostages above ground to use them as 'human shields' ahead of Israel's expected ground offensive in Gaza, according to local media.

Residents of Gaza City - home to roughly one million Palestinians - have been bracing for an onslaught since the Israeli government announced plans to deal Hamas a decisive blow in what it says are the militant group’s remaining strongholds. 

The IDF has issued evacuation orders for large sections of the besieged enclave. But reports say Hamas is attempting to keep residents in the northern Gaza Strip and block their escape. 

Palestinian sources claim some hostages are being held in houses, while others are in tents.

Earlier, Merav, the mother of hostage Guy Gilboa-Dalal, revealed in an interview with Galei Tzahal that her son is being held alone above ground in Gaza and is being used as a 'human shield.'

'I was informed that Guy is being held alone above ground in Gaza, serving as a human shield,' she said.

'Don't try to question me further - there are many things I want to say, but I'm holding back out of concern for my son's safety. When he comes home, maybe I'll scream louder, maybe I'll shake things up more.'

Kan News reported that Hamas is preparing a so-called 'legitimacy ambush' in Gaza City. This strategy aims to exploit civilian casualties to increase international pressure on Israel to halt its ground operation. 

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