Hamas and Israel Engage in Conflict Regarding Ceasefire Agreement While Strikes Hit Gaza
Hamas and Israel are engaged in a conflict regarding a possible ceasefire and hostage agreement, amidst increasing Israeli strikes on Gaza. Read Full Article at RT.com
A Hamas official indicated that the group had prepared a list of 34 captives to be released as part of a potential ceasefire agreement. However, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed this assertion, claiming that no such list had been received. Subsequently, the Hamas official shared the list with Reuters, highlighting the group’s readiness to engage in negotiation.
Discussions mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and U.S. officials are aimed at putting an end to the ongoing 15-month conflict ahead of the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20.
Israeli negotiators resumed conversations in Doha on Friday, but significant disagreements persist. The Hamas official told Reuters, “The occupation continues to be obstinate,” pointing to conflicts over ceasefire terms and Israel's potential withdrawal from Gaza.
The conflict saw a dramatic escalation over the weekend, with substantial airstrikes carried out in Gaza. Palestinian health officials reported 105 fatalities, including multiple casualties from strikes on residential areas, police facilities, and refugee camps.
The Israeli military claimed it had targeted over 100 sites, asserting that dozens of Hamas militants had been killed and rocket launch sites destroyed. Additionally, it confirmed the death of an Islamic Jihad militant involved in the cross-border assault that initiated the conflict.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a significant attack on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of around 250 individuals taken to Gaza. In retaliation, Israel initiated its military campaign against Gaza, leading to extensive destruction and a staggering loss of life. Authorities in Gaza have reported more than 45,800 Palestinian deaths.
Netanyahu has consistently insisted that the conflict will not cease until Hamas is thoroughly dismantled. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has urged Israel to enhance civilian protections while reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defense.
Olivia Brown for TROIB News