GAZA CITY, Palestine - Hamas has called on mediating countries to pressure Israel into allowing safe passage for dozens of its fighters trapped in tunnels in southern Gaza. The appeal comes after the Israeli military reported killing over 20 Hamas members in recent days and apprehending eight others who attempted to escape the underground network.

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"We hold Israel fully responsible for the lives of our fighters and call upon our mediators to take immediate action to allow our sons to return home," Hamas said in a statement, marking the first time the group publicly acknowledged that its members were trapped in the tunnels.

Israeli media reports indicate that between 100 and 200 militants have remained holed up for weeks under Rafah, in an area of Gaza under Israeli control. The tunnels lie within the so-called "yellow line," established under a US-brokered ceasefire that took effect on October 10, when Israeli forces withdrew from parts of the Palestinian territory.

Earlier this month, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff referenced the "200 fighters trapped in Rafah," suggesting their surrender and disarmament could serve as a "test" for both Israel and Hamas in upholding the ceasefire. However, Israel has signaled it will not allow the militants safe passage.

A spokesperson for the Israeli government reiterated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's position, stating he is "not allowing safe passage for 200 Hamas terrorists" and remains committed to dismantling Hamas's military capabilities and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip.

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Hamas, meanwhile, accused Israel of violating the ceasefire by targeting fighters trapped in the tunnels, describing their pursuit and arrest as acts of aggression. The situation underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the continuing tension between Israel and Hamas in the southern Gaza Strip.