The Gaza Strip experienced continued Israeli military attacks for the fourth consecutive day on Friday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals as confirmed by Palestinian health authorities. Despite expressing commitment to a ceasefire mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump, Israel carried out shelling and gunfire in northern Gaza, indicating ongoing hostilities in the region. The Israeli military did not provide an immediate response to inquiries from Reuters.
According to reports from the Palestinian WAFA news agency, another Palestinian succumbed to injuries sustained from previous Israeli attacks. The ceasefire, facilitated by the U.S., has faced challenges due to unresolved issues such as Hamas disarmament and a clear timeline for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, leading to sporadic outbreaks of violence since its implementation three weeks ago.
In response to the death of an Israeli soldier, Israel conducted retaliatory bombardments between Tuesday and Wednesday, resulting in the reported deaths of 104 individuals as per Gaza health authorities. Gaza’s Health Ministry received 30 Palestinian casualties’ bodies from the Red Cross, following Hamas’ handover of two hostages’ remains.
As part of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas released living hostages held in Gaza in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, while Israel committed to troop withdrawal, cessation of offensive operations, and increased humanitarian aid. Hamas also agreed to transfer the remains of 28 deceased hostages in return for 360 Palestinian militants killed during the conflict.
The process of returning hostages’ bodies has seen progress, with 17 bodies delivered by Hamas so far, while 225 Palestinian remains have been repatriated to Gaza. Hamas cited logistical challenges in locating and retrieving the remaining hostages’ bodies, while Israel accused the group of violating the ceasefire through delays in handovers.
The conflict in Gaza, spanning two years, has resulted in the deaths of over 68,000 Palestinians and extensive destruction in the enclave. The war was initiated by Israel in response to attacks by Hamas-led fighters on southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in casualties and the return of hostages to Gaza, according to Israeli reports.
