Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 44 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, with medics reporting multiple fatalities in recent days. The death toll has risen due to ongoing conflict and the intensification of ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas.
US and Arab mediators are working tirelessly to hammer out a ceasefire deal, which would include the release of hostages seized from Israel on October 7, 2023, as well as Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, differences remain over the approach, with Hamas pushing for a comprehensive agreement and Israel demanding a phased one.
In Gaza, airstrikes have targeted residential areas, killing civilians in multiple incidents. The Israeli military claims that Hamas militants used command centers in previously occupied schools to plan attacks against its forces.
Human rights organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, have condemned Israel’s actions as part of an ethnic cleansing campaign, citing forced displacement, mass killings, and severe injuries. The organization reported clear signs of ethnic cleansing and ongoing devastation in Gaza.
Ceasefire talks are focused on a first-phase release of hostages and Palestinians jailed by Israel. However, the pace of negotiations remains uncertain due to disagreements over security control and military threats from Gaza.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-keeps-up-gaza-bombardment-ceasefire-talks-intensify-2024-12-19