Israel has agreed to a proposal from US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, for following a temporary ceasefire in Gaza during the Ramadan and Passover periods, as per a statement released by the Prime Minister’s office. The development came as the first phase of a negotiated ceasefire which took place earlier is near its completion, as per Al Jazeera reports.
Uncertainty looms despite ceasefire
The ceasefire decision has been taken to ease tensions during these major religious holidays, but details on its implementation continue to be unclear. However, the atmosphere in Gaza remains tense despite the pause in the fighting.
According to Reuters, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel would immediately start negotiations on Witkoff’s ceasefire plan only if Hamas accepts it. As per the agreement, Israel can resume military operations after the 42nd day if it comes to decide that negotiations are ineffective, ‘’ Netanyahu’s office was quoted as saying by Reuters. The statement also blamed Hamas for breaking the deal, as both sides continue to accuse each other of violations.
The beginning of Ramadan, the typical time of prayer and fasting, is overshadowed by fears of new conflict. Many residents recollected the previous wars including the 2014 conflict when airstrikes forced families to run away in the middle of the night.
Last year the conditions were more dreadful. Many families were forced to break their fast because of only minimal provisions, sometimes just a single can of hummus or beans was shared among several families.
Meals were eaten in complete darkness because of power outages, reinforcing the harsh reality of the condition. Ceasefire deals will only contribute to giving temporary relief, many in Gaza continue to be unsure about what the future holds, with a constant fear that violence can restart again at any moment.
Meanwhile, in Tel Aviv, thousands of Israelis have come out on Begin Street, demanding the release of the hostages held in Gaza and pressing for the completion of the next phase of the ceasefire deal.
Israel-Hamas conflict
The conflict stems back to October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel on a large scale. Thousands of rockets were fired from Gaza at the beginning of the assault whereas Hamas militants breached Israel’s borders by land, sea, and air and even targeted civilian areas along with military bases. The attack led to mass casualties and kidnappings. As per reports, more than 200 people were taken hostage. Israel retaliated by declaring war on Hamas, followed by widespread airstrikes and a ground invasion of Gaza.
Not less than 1,1139 people were killed on that single day itself, marking one of the deadliest attacks in the history of the country. The ongoing war has since then led to thousands of deaths from both sides.
(With inputs from ANI and Reuters)