GAZA CITY: The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has climbed to 29,878 since the start of Israel’s relentless offensive against the besieged territory on October 7, 2023, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. As the deadly Israeli onslaught enters its 144th day, the toll continues to rise, with 96 people killed and 172 others injured in the past 24 hours alone.
The Gaza Health Ministry’s statement highlights the severity of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, with many Palestinian civilians trapped under rubble and in dire need of rescue. The Israeli army committed 11 massacres across the territory, which underscores the scale of the violence and devastation inflicted on Palestinian communities.
The ongoing offensive, launched following a cross-border attack by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas, has also resulted in significant displacement, with approximately 85% of Gazans forced to flee their homes. Moreover, the majority of the population faces food insecurity, and access to essential aid has been severely limited, with fewer aid trucks entering Gaza compared to before the conflict began.
Amid mounting international condemnation, Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice. In a preliminary ruling issued in January, the court ordered Tel Aviv to cease genocidal acts and ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.
Gaza Truce Efforts Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Meanwhile, Efforts to finalize a new truce between Israel and Palestinian resistance group Hamas in war-torn Gaza are intensifying, with recent statements from world leaders suggesting a potential breakthrough to strike a deal. However, with less than two weeks remaining before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the exact terms of the proposed ceasefire are still unclear.
Negotiators have outlined a tentative plan for a six-week halt in fighting, along with the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners and increased aid for the besieged Gaza Strip.
US President Joe Biden indicated that an agreement “in principle” could extend through Ramadan, which begins on March 10 or 11. The proposed truce is expected to last 42 days, with the possibility of renewal, according to Hamas sources, AFP reported. Israeli forces would reportedly withdraw from cities and populated areas in Gaza during this period, allowing some displaced Gazans to return home.
Under the proposed truce, Hamas would release 42 Israeli hostages. In exchange, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners, including women, children, and the elderly, at a ratio of 10-to-one.
