Israeli military vehicles have reportedly been stationed in the front yard of a hospital in Hadunis, southern Gaza, where thousands of displaced people have sought shelter, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent. The aid group alleges that Israeli forces surrounded the al-Amal hospital for over a week before entering the compound and firing live ammunition and smoke grenades. Hospital officials claim that the displaced individuals were forced to evacuate the building at gunpoint. Reports indicate that one woman was killed and nine others injured by gunfire from Israeli tanks, though these claims have not been independently verified.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Hamas has reviewed a new proposal for a potential ceasefire in Gaza. The proposal would include the release of captive Israeli soldiers and a temporary halt in the fighting. The initial phase of the plan would prioritize the release of civilians, particularly women, children, the elderly, and those who are ill. In exchange, it is suggested that a greater number of Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli jails will be set free, with a suggested ratio of three Palestinians released for every one Israeli. Following this initial phase, a longer pause in hostilities would be negotiated in exchange for the release of IDF soldiers held by Hamas. The final stage would involve the return of the bodies of Israelis who were killed or taken captive in Gaza.
Despite some optimism expressed by the Qatari Prime Minister and the US Secretary of State regarding the potential for a deal, several obstacles still remain. Hamas has maintained its stance that Israel must withdraw from the Gaza Strip as a condition for any new truce. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has also pushed back, stating that there will be no Israeli withdrawal and no release of thousands of imprisoned terrorists. He instead expressed his commitment to achieving 'total victory.'
Complicating matters further are domestic pressures faced by both Netanyahu and Hamas. Some members of Netanyahu's coalition, including Itamar Ben-Gvir of the far right, have threatened to bring down the government if a perceived risky deal is pursued. Meanwhile, the families of the hostages have intensified their protests, blocking roads and camping outside Netanyahu's villa in Caesarea.
Additionally, concerns have been raised by the Qatari Prime Minister about potential US retaliation for a drone strike in Jordan that killed three US servicemen and injured many more. As Hamas receives backing from Iran, any US involvement could further complicate the negotiation process.
While there is guarded optimism about the possibility of a deal being reached, the timing and outcome remain uncertain. The ongoing conflict continues to unfold, with civilians in Gaza and Israeli hostages in the balance.
