In the Gaza Strip, three Israeli hostages were accidentally killed by the Israeli military during a ground operation. The military mistakenly identified them as a threat in the Shijaiyah area of Gaza City. The incident is under investigation, and the army expressed deep sorrow for the tragic mistake.
Amidst the conflict, the U.S. and Israel are discussing a timetable to scale back intense combat operations against Hamas. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to explore postwar arrangements, including the possibility of reintroducing Palestinian security forces to Gaza, previously ousted by Hamas in 2007.
While Israeli officials estimate months to destroy Hamas, the U.S. emphasizes a phased approach. The ongoing offensive, triggered by an October 7 Hamas attack, has displaced 80% of Gaza’s population, leading to a humanitarian crisis.
Despite concerns over civilian casualties, the U.S. continues to support Israel with weapons shipments. Hamas, despite being battered, persists in its attacks. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 18,700 Palestinians, with thousands missing.
Communications in Gaza remain disrupted, and Israeli airstrikes continue. In the West Bank, discussions about postwar scenarios include the potential role of the Palestinian Authority’s security forces in maintaining peace in Gaza. Abbas called for an immediate cease-fire and increased aid to Gaza.
The U.S. envisions a unified Palestinian government for the West Bank and Gaza, leading to Palestinian statehood, a stance opposed by Israel. Abbas’s unpopularity and a tripled support for Hamas in the West Bank complicate the situation, emphasizing the challenges in reaching a postwar resolution.
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