Israeli forces launched attacks on Gaza on Tuesday, continuing the assault without a ceasefire on the anniversary of the Hamas strike that sparked two years of conflict. The ongoing offensive comes as Hamas and Israel engage in indirect negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, discussing key issues like Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and Hamas disarmament.
These negotiations, part of President Donald Trump’s peace plan, offer hope for ending a long-standing war that has claimed many Palestinian lives and caused extensive damage in Gaza since the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 casualties.
Residents in Khan Younis and Gaza City reported heavy bombardment by Israeli tanks, planes, and naval forces early Tuesday. Gaza militants fired rockets towards Israel, triggering air raid sirens at Netiv Haasara, while Israeli troops engaged gunmen in Gaza.
On the anniversary of the Hamas attack, various Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, reaffirmed their commitment to resistance against Israel. Israeli civilians also commemorated the event, gathering at sites like the Nova music festival and Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, marking the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.
Both Israelis and Palestinians expressed hopes for the conflict to end, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of the violence. The war in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with a large number of victims being children, although the exact casualty figures are disputed.
Israel’s offensive in Gaza, launched in response to the 2023 attack, has led to widespread destruction in the enclave. The international community remains divided over the conflict, with some condemning Israel’s actions and others supporting its right to defend itself.
President Trump’s peace plan, endorsed by Israel and Hamas, aims to bring about a ceasefire, release hostages, and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, challenges remain regarding the governance of Gaza and the reconstruction efforts post-conflict.
As negotiations continue in Egypt, there are uncertainties about the timeline for a resolution and the logistics of the hostages’ return. Israeli and Hamas delegations are engaged in discussions facilitated by international mediators, with the hope of reaching a lasting peace agreement.