Hamas is contemplating a new ceasefire proposal in response to heightened tensions with Israel in Gaza. This follows an Israeli commando operation in the occupied West Bank, resulting in the killing of three Palestinian militants and underscoring the risk of the conflict spreading.
Concurrently, Israeli forces engaged in fresh clashes with Hamas fighters in Gaza, leading more Palestinian residents to seek safer locations.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed receiving a ceasefire proposal after talks in Paris. The primary focus for the group is ending the Israeli offensive and securing a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Although the specifics of the proposal remain undisclosed, prominent figures like CIA Director William Burns, Qatar’s prime minister, Israel’s Mossad chief, and Egypt’s intelligence head were involved in the discussions.
Simultaneously, the West Bank witnessed a hospital raid, exacerbating existing tensions. Israeli commandos, some disguised as medical staff, entered Jenin’s Ibn Sina hospital, resulting in the death of three individuals. Hamas claimed one victim, identified as a group member, while Islamic Jihad asserted the other two were affiliated brothers.
The Israeli military defended its actions, citing the incident as evidence of militants using civilian areas and hospitals as shields. Palestinian sources contended that the victims were not involved in any fighting, emphasizing the wheelchair-bound condition of one individual.
The prolonged Gaza conflict has precipitated a humanitarian crisis, with extensive damage, widespread destitution, and diminishing essential resources. The World Health Organization warned of an imminent famine in Gaza.
Initiated in response to an attack resulting in 1,200 Israelis killed and 253 taken hostage, the conflict has seen over 26,000 Palestinians killed and 65,000 wounded. As the war persists, Israel intensified efforts in northern Gaza, indicating challenges in eradicating Hamas.
The group appears to be regrouping in Gaza City, with Tuesday’s actions focusing on the Beach refugee camp and Al Shifa hospital. Israeli forces maintained pressure in Khan Younis in the south, encircling the city’s main hospitals.
