Former SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum is putting his own money on the line to help free Israeli hostages, offering $100,000 to any Gaza resident who aids in their release.
"This year was a terrible year. It's time to move on," Birnbaum said in a video posted across social media platforms. Birnabuam's offer runs out on midnight Wednesday and includes the option for payment in either cash or Bitcoin.
His initiative follows recent IDF operations in Gaza, where military aircraft dropped leaflets promising immunity to those who surrender weapons and help return hostages. "Hamas no longer controls Gaza," the leaflets declared.
In his appeal, Birnbaum builds on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent pledge of safe passage for those helping to free captives. "Anyone who delivers from Gaza a living Israeli prisoner will receive $100,000. Don't wait."
The unusual intervention stands out amidst the ongoing crisis. While governments typically handle hostage negotiations, Birnbaum's direct appeal to Gaza residents marks a shift in approach, bypassing traditional diplomatic channels.
Whether the offer will yield results remains to be seen, but it highlights growing desperation to secure the hostages' release through any means possible. The deadline looms as Wednesday approaches, with families of those held captive watching closely for any sign of movement.
