The Israeli military announced on Wednesday its commitment to the ceasefire in Gaza, while health officials reported 104 casualties from airstrikes, with both sides accusing each other of violating the agreement. Despite this, the military conducted an airstrike in Beit Lahia, Gaza, targeting a weapons storage area, resulting in the death of two individuals.
The Gaza Health Ministry disclosed that among the casualties from Israeli airstrikes, 46 children and 20 women were included. The death of an Israeli soldier in Gaza on Tuesday sparked increased tensions post-ceasefire implementation on Oct. 10. Israel attributed the soldier’s death to an attack within the designated “yellow line,” where its forces had withdrawn under the truce, while Hamas denied responsibility and affirmed its commitment to the ceasefire terms.
Israel pledged to adhere to the ceasefire terms while maintaining a firm response to any violations. In Nuseirat, central Gaza, a tragic incident occurred where an entire family perished in an airstrike, leaving a devastated community mourning their loss. Additionally, a displaced individual recounted a harrowing experience of narrowly escaping an airstrike that claimed the life of his father.
Despite ongoing bombardments, U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized that the U.S.-backed ceasefire remained secure, emphasizing Israel’s right to retaliate in response to provocations. However, some displaced Palestinians expressed concerns about the potential collapse of the truce, citing recent escalations and fears of renewed conflict.
The ceasefire agreement included provisions for the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, as well as the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the cessation of offensive operations. Disputes arose over the recovery of human remains, with Israel accusing Hamas of manipulating efforts to retrieve bodies. The issue of deceased hostages’ remains has become a crucial point of contention in maintaining the ceasefire, closely monitored by international observers.
The Israeli military released a video purportedly showing Hamas staging the recovery of remains, leading to criticism from the Red Cross for undermining trust in the recovery process. The incident highlighted the delicate nature of ceasefire agreements and the complexities of post-conflict reconciliation efforts.
