Ongoing Conflict in Gaza: Ceasefire Negotiations and Continued Violence
Negotiations for a ceasefire are underway in Qatar, but the conflict in the Gaza Strip shows no signs of abating. Israel is focused on the 'destruction of the terrorist infrastructure,' particularly targeting Hamas units in the south of the Gaza Strip. In a recent offensive in Rafah, Israeli military claims to have killed over 900 terrorists, including high-ranking commanders, though these figures remain unverified.
Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi emphasized the long-term nature of the operation, stating, 'We are now concentrating on destroying the terrorist infrastructure, which takes time.' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, indicating that Israeli troops would remain at strategic locations even after the intensive fighting phase.
Humanitarian Crisis and Evacuations
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly. Israel has expanded its evacuation calls, urging residents to leave several central districts of Gaza City. The United Nations has expressed dismay at these calls, highlighting the increasing number of civilian casualties. According to the UN, 34 Palestinians, mostly children, have died from malnutrition since the conflict began.
Thousands of residents are fleeing, using cars, bicycles, and even donkey carts to escape the violence. Many are seeking refuge in UN-run schools, which have also come under attack. The UN humanitarian coordinator for the territory estimated that the conflict has displaced 1.9 million people, 80% of the population.
Complex Ceasefire Negotiations
Indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages are ongoing in Doha, following talks in Cairo. However, significant 'divergences' remain between the two sides. One major point of contention is Israel's refusal to release 100 Palestinian prisoners with long sentences. Hamas is also demanding a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Rafah border crossing and the Philadelphia Corridor during the ceasefire.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has intervened, aiming to bring the Gaza issue to the NATO summit's agenda. Despite these efforts, a breakthrough in the negotiations remains elusive.
- The Gaza war was triggered by a massacre on October 7, 2023, where over 1,200 people were killed by Hamas and other extremist groups in Israel. Since then, more than 38,200 people have died in Gaza, according to the Palestinian health authority.
- The Israeli army launched its first offensive in Gaza City shortly after the Hamas attack, and has since continued its operations southward. The conflict has led to significant displacement, with many Palestinians seeking refuge in UN-run schools and other temporary shelters.
- The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the blockade, which prevents aid deliveries and leaves the population without sufficient food and medical supplies. The UN has warned of a famine spreading in the Gaza Strip, with recent deaths due to hunger and malnutrition highlighting the severity of the situation.
