The Gaza Strip faced a fourth consecutive day of Israeli military attacks on Friday, resulting in the death of three individuals as confirmed by Palestinian health officials. Despite affirming commitment to a ceasefire mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump, Israel continued shelling and exchanging gunfire in northern Gaza, raising concerns about the sustainability of the truce.
Notably, a Palestinian succumbed to injuries sustained in prior Israeli attacks, as reported by the Palestinian WAFA news agency. The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S., has faced challenges due to unresolved issues such as Hamas disarmament and a clear timeline for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, leading to sporadic outbreaks of violence since its implementation three weeks ago.
Following the death of an Israeli soldier, Israel retaliated with airstrikes between Tuesday and Wednesday, resulting in the reported deaths of 104 individuals according to Gaza health authorities. Additionally, the Gaza Health Ministry received 30 bodies of Palestinians killed by Israel during the conflict, while Hamas handed over two hostages’ bodies.
Under the ceasefire terms, Hamas released all living hostages in Gaza in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees by Israel. Moreover, Israel agreed to withdraw troops, cease offensive actions, and provide humanitarian aid. Hamas also committed to returning all deceased hostages, with 17 bodies already handed over, and 225 Palestinian bodies retrieved so far.
Despite these efforts, Hamas faces challenges in locating and returning the remaining hostages’ bodies, leading to accusations from Israel of truce violations. The prolonged conflict in Gaza over the past two years has resulted in significant casualties, with over 68,000 Palestinians reported dead by Gaza health authorities, and widespread destruction in the region. The conflict was initiated in response to Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in fatalities and hostage-taking incidents.