The Gaza Strip witnessed a fourth consecutive day of Israeli military strikes on Friday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals as reported by Palestinian health authorities. Despite claims of commitment to a ceasefire by Israel, residents reported ongoing shelling and gunfire in northern Gaza, raising concerns about the stability of the agreement brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Israeli military did not provide an immediate response to inquiries regarding the recent attacks. Additionally, one Palestinian passed away from injuries sustained in previous Israeli shelling, according to the Palestinian WAFA news agency.
The ceasefire, facilitated by the U.S., has faced challenges since its implementation three weeks ago, with unresolved issues such as Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal timelines from Gaza. Recent escalations saw Israel responding to the death of an Israeli soldier with airstrikes that resulted in the reported deaths of 104 individuals in Gaza.
Gaza’s Health Ministry confirmed the receipt of 30 bodies of Palestinians killed in the conflict from the Red Cross, following Hamas’s release of two hostage bodies. As part of the ceasefire terms, Hamas exchanged living hostages for Palestinian prisoners and detainees, while Israel agreed to withdraw troops, cease offensive actions, and provide increased aid.
Hamas committed to transferring the remains of all deceased hostages in exchange for Palestinian militants killed during the conflict. Despite the return of 17 bodies, the process has been delayed, leading to accusations from Israel of Hamas violating the ceasefire.
The prolonged conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 68,000 Palestinians reported dead by Gazan health authorities. The conflict originated in October 2023 when Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel, leading to widespread destruction and casualties, including the return of hostages to Gaza by Israeli accounts.