The situation in Gaza remains tense, with ongoing violence overshadowing hopes for lasting peace. Recent drone attacks have further escalated the conflict, highlighting the fragility of the current ceasefire. Here’s an overview of the latest developments in the region.
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — An Israeli drone strike killed two Palestinians on bicycles Tuesday, hospital officials reported, marking the latest casualties since a ceasefire began in October but has not effectively stopped violent incidents in the Gaza Strip.
Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital stated that the two individuals were struck near the ceasefire line that separates Gaza, with one side under Israeli military control. The casualties occurred in eastern Deir al-Balah, and the hospital also received a deceased woman who was shot by Israeli forces in the central Maghazi refugee camp.
The Israeli military did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding these strikes. Previously, the military has asserted that it reacts to ceasefire violations or attacks targeting its soldiers.
On Tuesday, Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that 586 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire commenced, bringing the total number of fatalities since the onset of Israel’s offensive to 72,037. This ministry, part of the Hamas-led government, maintains thorough casualty records that are generally deemed reliable by U.N. agencies and independent analysts, though it does not provide a breakdown between civilians and militants.
Deadly Israeli strikes have continually disrupted the truce since it took effect on Oct. 10. Many in Gaza, witnessing the escalating Palestinian toll, feel as though the war rages on without pause.
Despite the ongoing violence, some aspects of the agreement from the previous ceasefire are progressing. After a tumultuous initial week, more Palestinians are reportedly entering and leaving Gaza through the reopened Rafah crossing. Additionally, plans for an international peacekeeping force aimed at ensuring security in Gaza are beginning to unfold.
Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, announced Tuesday that it has commenced training personnel for deployment in Gaza, focusing on reconstruction and humanitarian efforts. The army chief of staff indicated that between 5,000 and 8,000 troops are getting ready for this mission.
Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela, a spokesperson for Indonesia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, clarified that their troops will not engage in disarmament—a contentious issue yet to be resolved within the peace framework.
Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto announced at the U.N. General Assembly in October that his nation plans to contribute troops, although specifics regarding the force’s responsibilities and mandate remain ambiguous. This commitment coincided with efforts by Prabowo to strengthen ties with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The divisions between Israel and Hamas persist regarding the timeline and extent of Israel’s withdrawal and the demilitarization of the region after nearly 20 years under Hamas governance.
The temporary International Stabilization Force described in last year’s 20-point peace plan is envisioned as a later phase in the demilitarization process.
The war erupted when Hamas-led militants launched an incursion into southern Israel, resulting in around 1,200 deaths, primarily among civilians, on October 7, 2023. The 251 hostages taken during the raid were released back to Israel through various ceasefire agreements, concluding with the return of the remains of Israeli police officer Ran Gvili in January, thus paving the way for the advancement of the ceasefire plan. This conflict has triggered global protests and accusations of genocide, which Israel has denied.
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Tarigan reported from Jakarta, Indonesia. Samy Magdy and Sam Metz contributed from Cairo and Ramallah, West Bank.
Find more of AP’s coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
Key Takeaways
- Recent drone strikes in Gaza resulted in two Palestinian deaths.
- The conflict continues despite a ceasefire established on October 10.
- Casualties in Gaza have exceeded 72,000 since the outset of the Israeli offensive.
- Indonesian troops are being prepared for deployment to assist with reconstruction in Gaza.
- The dynamics surrounding Israel’s withdrawal and demilitarization remain contentious.
FAQ
What triggered the latest violence in Gaza?
Violence escalated following drone strikes and ongoing disputes over ceasefire violations.
How many Palestinians have been reported killed since the ceasefire began?
As of now, 586 Palestinians are reported to have died since the ceasefire took effect.
What is Indonesia’s role in Gaza?
Indonesia is training troops for humanitarian efforts and reconstruction in Gaza.
The situation remains complex and fluid, with various international actors involved in seeking a resolution. The hope for a peaceful future continues to clash with the realities on the ground.
