Israel conducted a series of attacks in Gaza on Sunday, announcing a halt to aid into the region following assaults on its forces, as reported by the military. This marks a significant challenge to the US-mediated ceasefire established earlier this month.
Gaza residents and local health officials confirmed that Israeli airstrikes and tank fire resulted in at least 18 fatalities, including a woman.
The Israeli military targeted Hamas infrastructures such as tunnels, weapon stockpiles, and militants.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated he directed the military to respond decisively to what he termed as Hamas’ breaches of the ceasefire. The military noted that militants in Rafah fired an anti-tank missile and attacked soldiers.
Uncertain Path to Peace
Hamas’ military wing claimed it remains dedicated to the ceasefire, unaware of any Rafah clashes, and has had no communications with local factions since March.
An Israeli security official announced aid suspension to Gaza due to Hamas’ apparent ceasefire violation.
Fearing the ceasefire’s collapse, some Palestinians hurried to purchase essentials in Nuseirat camp, while families evacuated Khan Younis following nearby airstrikes.
The current strikes resemble Israel’s reaction to perceived ceasefire violations with Hezbollah in late 2024, which, despite initial tensions, largely persisted.
However, significant barriers obstruct lasting peace in Gaza, where a ceasefire fell apart in March after nearly two months of relative calm due to Israeli airstrikes.
Contention Over Hostage Remains
The new ceasefire, effective October 11, ended two years of conflict, yet mutual accusations of violations persist between the Israeli government and Hamas.
Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a “yellow line” marking Israeli withdrawal, warning that any breach would provoke a military response.
Hamas reported multiple Israeli violations causing 46 deaths and blocking vital supplies to the territory.
Israel announced that the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, expected to reopen this week, would stay closed until Hamas meets ceasefire terms.
Israel accuses Hamas of delaying the return of hostage bodies. Last week, Hamas released 20 living hostages and subsequently handed over 12 of 28 deceased.
Famine Affecting Hundreds of Thousands
Hamas stated it intends to return all hostage bodies, requiring special tools to retrieve those buried under debris.
The Rafah crossing has primarily been closed since May 2024. The ceasefire agreement includes increased aid to Gaza, where hundreds of thousands face famine as per the IPC global hunger monitor.
Historically, the crossing facilitated crucial humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Despite increased aid through another crossing until Sunday’s halt, the UN emphasizes the need for more support.
Key unresolved issues include Hamas disarmament, Gaza’s governance, an international “stabilization force,” and steps toward a Palestinian state.
