Israel continues its airstrike on Gaza amid Ceasefire and hostage exchange deal. Image: ABC News.
(The Post News)– Gaza was struck by Israeli airstrikes, resulting in 73 fatalities as reported by the civil defence agency operated by Hamas. These attacks occurred amidst hopes for a ceasefire; however, a hostage exchange deal is anticipated to commence on Sunday, contingent upon Israeli cabinet approval.
The health ministry reported that among the victims were 12 residents from a building in the Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood of Gaza City. Medical teams worked tirelessly, overwhelmed by the influx of casualties, during what Dr. Amjad Eliwah from Gaza City’s Baptist Hospital described as a “bloody night.” According to Dr. Eliwah, the ceasefire news brought hope to people; however, that was short-lived, as they ended up being victims.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) announced that they struck 50 sites connected to Hamas, targeting individuals allegedly involved in the October 7 attack. Earlier, they mistakenly reported a missile landing in southern Israel but later withdrew that claim.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is preparing to discuss a ceasefire agreement in parliament. Tensions arose when his office accused Hamas of breaking parts of the agreement. In contrast to previous assertions, Hamas maintains it is still honoring the deal—a position supported by mediators in Qatar and Egypt.
The accord stipulates the liberation of 33 hostages (predominantly women and children) in return for Palestinian detainees. In the initial phase, displaced Palestinians are to be permitted to return to their homes; however, hundreds of aid trucks will each day be allowed into Gaza. Although this is a step forward, many remain skeptical about the outcomes because of past experiences.
Meanwhile, there is a noticeable sense of dissatisfaction within Netanyahu’s coalition, with the far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir having issued threats of resignation should the ceasefire proceed. Although experts on the Gaza war contend that these threats are improbable to hinder the agreement, as this situation remains tenuous.
While the conflict in Gaza has resulted in widespread devastation, over 46,788 individuals have died since 7 October, and 2.3 million have been displaced according to health officials. The situation is exacerbated by severe shortages of food, fuel and medicine; however, this crisis continues to escalate. Although the international community is aware of the challenges, the response has been insufficient because the needs are immense. The United Nations warns that every day, 15 children sustain injuries that result in life-altering disabilities.
Achim Steiner from the United Nations Development Programme talked about the massive challenge of rebuilding. He noted, “We are dealing with 40 million tons of dangerous rubble,” highlighting the long road to recovery.
Even with a ceasefire possibly approaching, violence hasn’t stopped. This morning, Israel forces killed nine people, according to AL Jazeera Arabic reporter. While arrest in the West Bank are adding to the ongoing unrest. The situation is highly tense, as fundamental issues still exist. With the hope for peace, the stark reality is that problems still remain and can’t be overlooked.
Negotiations for next phase of the ceasefire— including complete withdrawal of Israeli troops and release of hostages— are planned for coming weeks. However, path to lasting peace is still uncertain because of persistent conflict and political divisions. Although progress has been made, challenges remain; this complicates the situation.
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