Current Situation in Gaza Strip
As the agreement between Israel and Hamas continues, thousands of displaced Palestinians have started returning to the northern part of the Gaza Strip. This movement is a result of the understanding reached between the two parties to release hostages as part of the truce in the war-torn territory. The Hamas-ruled strip’s Ministry of Interior official confirmed that the passage of displaced Palestinians began along the Al Rachid road, leading towards Gaza City and the northern part of the territory.
Exchange of Hostages and Prisoners
The agreement has paved the way for a new exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, keeping the fragile truce alive in the 15-month war between Israel and Hamas. Israel received a list from Hamas detailing the situation of all hostages, releasable alive or dead, in the first phase of the agreement. In return, thousands of Palestinians, including those with carts loaded with luggage, were seen advancing along the Al Rachid route along the Gaza coast.
Violations of Truce Agreement
Despite the agreement, both Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the truce agreement in force since January 19. The accusations led to Israel blocking the Palestinians’ passage to northern Gaza, which was later reopened after the new understanding with Hamas.
International Involvement
US President Donald Trump’s proposal to “cleanse” the Gaza Strip and transfer its inhabitants to Egypt and Jordan was met with rejection from various parties. The Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al Sisi and Jordan’s King Abdullah II were mentioned as potential parties involved in the proposal. However, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Egypt both expressed firm rejection of the proposal, stating that it would affect the inalienable rights of Palestinians.
Response from Palestinian Leaders
Palestinian leaders, including President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas member Basem Naim, condemned the proposal, stating that it would derail any attempts to displace Palestinians. The leaders emphasized the importance of Palestinian rights and the need to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
Humanitarian Crisis
The war in Gaza has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with thousands of civilians killed or displaced. The Gaza Strip has been compared to a “demolition site” by President Trump, highlighting the need for a lasting solution to the conflict. The delivery of 900 kilo bombs to Israel, authorized by President Trump, has also raised concerns about the escalating violence in the region.
Phased Truce Agreement
The truce agreement is expected to be implemented in three phases, with the first phase lasting six weeks. The agreement aims to release a total of 33 hostages in exchange for some 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. The subsequent phases will focus on negotiating the release of the remaining hostages and initiating the process of reconstruction in Gaza.
