Reports indicate that Israel has allegedly committed nearly 500 violations of the Gaza ceasefire agreement since it was brokered on October 10th. The Gaza Government Media Office has stated that these actions have resulted in the deaths of at least 342 Palestinians over a 44-day period. Many of the reported victims are said to be women, children, and the elderly, highlighting a severe humanitarian concern.
The ceasefire, established to bring a pause to the conflict, is reportedly being undermined by continued Israeli airstrikes. Specifically, on a recent Saturday, 27 violations were documented, leading to 24 deaths and 87 injuries. The Gaza media office has strongly condemned these actions, labeling them “serious and systematic violations” and a “flagrant breach of international humanitarian law.”
In the latest reported incident on Saturday, Israeli airstrikes across Gaza claimed the lives of at least 24 Palestinians, including children. This is described by local officials as a fresh violation of the six-week-old truce. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office stated these strikes were a response to an alleged Hamas attack near the “yellow line,” territory within Israel-controlled areas. Israel claimed to have eliminated five senior Hamas fighters during this operation.
Hamas has contested Israel’s narrative, demanding evidence of the alleged attack. A senior Hamas official urged mediators, including the United States, to compel Israel to adhere to the ceasefire terms, accusing Israel of fabricating excuses to resume hostilities. Hamas insists it remains committed to the ceasefire.
Residents describe the current situation as a “ceasefire in name only,” with ongoing airstrikes creating a pervasive sense of insecurity. Dozens of families in northern Gaza are reportedly besieged as Israeli forces advance beyond the agreed-upon “yellow line.” Furthermore, essential aid and medical supplies are heavily restricted, despite their mandated access under the agreement.
Concerning findings have emerged regarding bodies returned by Israel. Gaza’s Forensic Evidence Department reported that 330 returned bodies show signs of torture, mutilation, and execution. Identifying these remains has proven difficult, with only 90 identified due to a lack of resources. Officials are appealing for international assistance to aid in identification processes.