GAZA, Jan 16 (Alliance News): Despite the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, attacks on the Gaza Strip have not ceased, with at least 40 Palestinians reportedly martyred in the latest strikes.
The Gaza Civil Defense Agency confirmed that the Israeli bombardment persisted after the ceasefire announcement, claiming the lives of 40 Palestinians, including 30 in Gaza City alone. The agency criticized the ongoing violence, emphasizing its devastating impact on civilians.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, was announced on Wednesday in Doha by Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. He detailed the agreement’s phased approach, set to take effect on January 19, focusing initially on exchanging hostages and prisoners and facilitating the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
The six-week truce will unfold in three stages, beginning with the release of civilian hostages and prisoners. The second phase will see Hamas releasing Israeli captives, while Israeli forces withdraw from public areas in Gaza. The final phase aims for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the occupied Strip.
While the agreement marks a potential step toward de-escalation, the continued violence raises questions about its enforcement and underscores the challenges of achieving lasting peace in the region.