Hamas leader seeks truce negotiations in Cairo, amidst Israel's bombardment of Gaza City
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the situation remains dire as both parties continue their hostilities. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in intense hostilities and a humanitarian crisis, with significant casualties and displacement.
Hamas Attack and Israeli Response
The conflict was ignited when Hamas fired rockets and carried out armed incursions into southern Israeli cities, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the taking of 251 hostages. Israel responded with aerial bombardments starting October 7 and initiated ground operations by mid-October, including encircling Gaza City by early November to enforce a siege.
Siege and Evacuations
Israel ordered more than one million Palestinian civilians in northern Gaza to evacuate, anticipating a ground invasion. The siege has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, leading to international condemnation and diplomatic tensions.
Casualties and Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilian populations. By early November, strikes hit civilian infrastructure such as a UN-run school in the Jabalia refugee camp and a children's hospital, causing numerous civilian deaths and injuries. As of April 2025, over 61,000 Palestinians have been reported killed, according to local health officials.
Hostage Situation and Exchanges
Hundreds of hostages were taken by Hamas. A temporary truce in late November allowed an exchange of some hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a brief respite for humanitarian aid, but fighting soon resumed.
Political Divisions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has plans to expand military control over Gaza, a move that has increased global outcry over the widespread devastation, displacement, and hunger afflicting Gaza's 2.2 million people. The plan faces internal opposition and concerns about prolonged Israeli control and its effects on Palestinian self-determination.
On the other hand, a Hamas official has stated that the Islamist movement is prepared to transfer governance of Gaza to a non-partisan committee. However, the gaps between the sides appear to remain wide on key issues, including the extent of any Israeli military withdrawal and demands for Hamas to disarm.
International Intervention
Foreign ministers of 24 countries, including Britain, Canada, Australia, France, and Japan, have urged Israel to allow unrestricted aid into Gaza, stating the humanitarian crisis has reached "unimaginable levels." Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya is in Cairo for talks to revive a U.S.-backed ceasefire plan.
Israeli Military Operations
The Israeli military has reportedly killed dozens of militants in north Gaza over the past month and destroyed more tunnels used by militants in the area. Israeli planes and tanks bombarded eastern areas of Gaza City overnight, killing at least 11 people. The Israeli military is investigating reports of the latest bombardments and claims to take precautions to mitigate civilian harm.
Hamas's Stance
A Palestinian official with knowledge of the mediated ceasefire talks said Hamas is prepared to return to the negotiating table. However, the official also stated that Hamas would not relinquish its arms before a Palestinian state is established.
As the conflict continues, the future of Gaza remains uncertain, with hopes for a peaceful resolution and an end to the suffering of its people.
Read also:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Independence supporters in New Caledonia refuse agreement offering authority without a vote on sovereignty
