Hamas and Israel Clash Over Ceasefire Deal Amid Gaza Strikes

Tensions rise between Hamas and Israel as both sides clash over the terms of a ceasefire deal while ongoing Gaza strikes continue to escalate the situation.

Negotiations to end the Gaza conflict and facilitate the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas have hit a standstill. This comes after Palestinian officials reported more than 100 fatalities due to increased IDF airstrikes over the weekend.

A representative from Hamas announced that the organization had agreed on a list of 34 captives to be released under a possible ceasefire deal.

Nonetheless, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the allegation, stating that no such list had been received. Later on Sunday, a Hamas official shared the list with Reuters to highlight the group’s readiness to negotiate.

Mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and U.S. officials, the discussions aim to conclude the 15-month conflict before Donald Trump is inaugurated as President on January 20.

Israeli negotiators restarted talks in Doha on Friday, though significant disagreements persist.

“The occupation remains stubborn,” the Hamas official told Reuters, highlighting disputes over a ceasefire and Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza.

The conflict intensified significantly over the weekend, marked by extensive airstrikes in Gaza. According to Palestinian health officials, there were 105 fatalities reported, with numerous casualties resulting from attacks on homes, police stations, and refugee camps.

The Israeli military reported that it targeted more than 100 locations, asserting the elimination of dozens of Hamas militants and the destruction of rocket launch sites. Additionally, it announced killing an Islamic Jihad militant who was involved in sparking cross-border hostilities at the onset of the conflict.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants carried out a lethal attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and capturing approximately 250 hostages to Gaza.

In response, Israel initiated a military campaign targeting Gaza, leading to extensive destruction and significant loss of life. Health authorities in Gaza have reported that over 45,800 Palestinians have died as a result.

Netanyahu has consistently asserted that the conflict will persist until Hamas is entirely eradicated. Meanwhile, the US State Department has urged Israel to enhance its measures for civilian protection, while also reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defense.