Israel is restricting aid into Gaza, allowing only 300 trucks, which is half the agreed daily amount, and no fuel or gas, except for specific humanitarian needs. This decision comes as Hamas has been slow to return the bodies of hostages, which Israel cited as the reason for the restrictions. U. S. President Donald Trump announced that Phase Two of the ceasefire deal is beginning but expressed frustration over the delay in body handovers.
Hamas has quickly regained power in Gaza’s urban areas following a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops. In a disturbing video, Hamas fighters were seen executing men in a public square. Hamas confirmed the authenticity of the video, highlighting their control in the area. Trump’s support for Hamas to temporarily govern parts of Gaza contrasts with Israeli officials’ view that any lasting peace must involve disarming the group.
Recent exchanges between Israel and Hamas included the release of 20 Israeli hostages for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, but Hamas has only returned four dead hostages so far, leaving many still unaccounted for. Aid delivery has not yet reached the desired levels, and plans to open the Egypt border for Gazans needing medical treatment are still pending.
The resurgence of Hamas underscores the complexities of moving from the initial ceasefire to a lasting peace, as their fighters are increasingly visible and have engaged in clashes with rivals. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes and drone actions have resulted in multiple fatalities, with both sides accusing one another of violating ceasefire conditions.
A recent summit in Egypt co-hosted by Trump did not yield significant progress towards establishing a new governing body for Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that the conflict will only end if Hamas disarms, a condition the group has rejected. Hamas has stated it will maintain order in Gaza and target those it deems collaborators or criminals, despite being weakened by two years of conflict.
The ceasefire halted extensive warfare following a deadly attack on October 7, 2023, by Hamas, which resulted in significant Israeli casualties and hostage situations. In turn, the Israeli military response led to staggering casualties in Gaza, with local health authorities reporting nearly 68,000 deaths. The destruction in Gaza is immense, with communities devastated and many returning to find their homes in rubble, as the situation there continues to draw international concern with reports of famine.
With information from Reuters