WATCH: Crazy scenes of chaos as thousands of Gazans wait for Netzarim Crossing to open 

The face of Arbel Yehud haunts Gaza today, as her captivity by Islamic Jihad terrorists brings movement across the strip to a standstill. Thousands of Palestinians crowd the Netzarim crossing, their return home blocked until the militants release their Israeli hostage.

Hamas has twice violated the ceasefire agreement - failing to free Yehud in the second phase of releases and withholding critical information about other captives' status. Their broken promises cast a shadow over hopes for further hostage returns.

The scene at Netzarim tells a story of Hamas's cynical tactics: using their own population as leverage while an innocent Israeli woman remains in terrorist hands. Islamic Jihad's sudden admission of holding Yehud adds another layer of complexity to securing her freedom.

Israel stands firm - no northern return until Yehud walks free. As diplomatic channels activate, with Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff joining mediation efforts, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qasem claims they've provided "proof of life." But words mean little while Yehud remains captive.

The crowds continue growing at the crossing points, creating mounting pressure on Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Each hour that passes with Yehud in captivity exposes the terrorists' disregard for both Israeli lives and their own people's wellbeing.

Thousands remain stranded - their distress evident, victims of their leadership's cruel calculation in holding one Israeli hostage against the movement of masses.

As pressure mounts, Israel is increasingly worried about Yehud and why Hamas is refusing to release her.

Kikar HaShabbat and Arutz Sheva contributed to this article.

Photo credit: Ali Hassan / Flash90