Israel-Hamas Conflict Resumes as Israeli Strikes and Evacuations Begin
Israel has launched strikes and ordered evacuations in southern Gaza, marking a resumption of the conflict with Hamas.
Israeli Strikes in Southern Gaza
Israeli warplanes have carried out strikes in southern Gaza, just a day after a ceasefire with Hamas collapsed. According to Gazan health authorities, more than 15,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks since October 7th.
The calls from Israel to evacuate parts of southern Gaza could potentially signal an impending invasion.
Gazans who are under new bombardments feel trapped and have very few options.
Israel’s Targeted Bombardments
The Israeli military has heavily bombarded southern Gaza and ordered residents of Palestinian border towns to leave their homes. This indicates a possible ground invasion in the south as hostilities resume after the collapse of the weeklong truce with Hamas.
The Israeli military has struck over 50 locations in and around Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza. The nearby town of Al Qarara has also been targeted.
Gazans who are currently under new bombardments face limited options and increasing fear and uncertainty.
Ceasefire Breakdown and Prisoner Exchange Stalemate
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas fell apart due to the inability to agree on further exchanges of prisoners and hostages. Israeli and Hamas officials blamed each other for violating the ceasefire and accused one another of resuming military activities. However, the real reason for the cessation of the pause was a stalemate in negotiations for a prisoner-hostage swap.
Israel has now signaled that it is ending its involvement in the talks. Yossi Cohen, head of the Mossad, has ordered his team to return to Israel from the negotiations in Qatar.
The stalemate in negotiations has left concerns growing for the safety of the oldest people still held hostage.
Growing Concern for Hostages' Safety
As some hostages are released by Hamas, concerns continue to mount over the safety of the remaining hostages, particularly the elderly and the sick.
Families of the remaining hostages, like Rotem Cooper whose father remains a hostage, are urging for a concrete arrangement to rescue those who are old and have chronic conditions.
Time is of the essence, as delays could mean the difference between life and death for the elderly hostages.
