Background on Key Figures and Context
The Gaza Strip, governed by the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), has reported that approximately 475 bodies have been recovered from areas evacuated by Israeli troops following the agreement reached about two weeks ago for implementing the first phase of the U.S. proposal for the Palestinian enclave.
Hamas, a significant political and militant organization in the Palestinian territories, has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007. The group’s influence and activities have been central to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Understanding Hamas’s role and perspective is crucial to comprehending the complexities of this situation.
Details on the Situation
According to a statement from Gaza’s Health Ministry, since the ceasefire took effect on October 11, there have been 94 confirmed deaths, 344 injuries, and 474 recovered bodies. In the past 24 hours, two additional bodies were found.
The ministry also reported that as of now, 68,531 fatalities and 170,402 injuries have been documented due to the Israeli offensive triggered by attacks on October 7, 2023. However, they emphasized that there are still victims trapped among the rubble and in streets inaccessible to emergency services.
Identification of Recovered Bodies
Out of the 195 bodies handed over by Israel—three more than the previous day—75 have been identified so far. These bodies were withheld following the October 7 attacks, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths and nearly 250 abductions, according to Gaza authorities.
Allegations of Ceasefire Violations
Gaza authorities’ press office claimed that Israel has “blatantly and systematically” violated the ceasefire agreement since October 11, with over 125 violations causing the deaths of 94 civilians and injuring another 344.
- Nature of Violations: The alleged violations include 52 direct armed attacks against civilians, nine incursions into residential areas by Israeli vehicles, 55 artillery attacks on civilian buildings, and eleven bombardments of civilian structures.
- Detentions: There have been 21 Palestinian detentions in Gaza.
Gaza authorities condemned these repeated and aggressive ceasefire violations, holding Israel fully responsible for the humanitarian and security consequences. They called on U.S. President Donald Trump and other mediators to pressure Israel into ceasing violations and adhering to the agreed terms.
Demands for Humanitarian Aid
Gaza authorities have requested the immediate and complete opening of border crossings to facilitate food, aid, medical supplies, and medicines. They specifically called for opening the Rafah border to evacuate thousands of injured and sick individuals for treatment abroad and to allow the entry of shelter materials as winter approaches.
