Israel is considering the possibility of annexing portions of Gaza as a means to exert pressure on Hamas, according to a statement made by Israeli Minister Zeev Elkin. This move could jeopardize Palestinian aspirations for statehood on occupied Israeli territory. The statement from Elkin follows Britain’s announcement that it would recognize a Palestinian state in September if Israel does not act to alleviate suffering in Gaza and agree to a ceasefire with Hamas.
France and Saudi Arabia, supported by Egypt, Qatar, and the Arab League, have issued a declaration outlining steps towards implementing a two-state solution, emphasizing the need for Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza and surrender its weapons to the Palestinian Authority as part of ending the conflict.
Israel has criticized efforts to recognize a Palestinian state, attributing it to Hamas’s actions that led to the conflict in October 2023. Elkin expressed concerns that Hamas may be prolonging ceasefire negotiations to extract concessions from Israel and suggested that Israel could expand military actions if an agreement is not reached promptly.
The international community has been increasingly pressuring Israel over the crisis in Gaza, where a global hunger monitor has warned of an impending famine. The Gaza Health Ministry reported additional hunger-related deaths, including that of a two-year-old girl with preexisting health issues.
Recognition of a Palestinian state has evoked mixed reactions, with a Gazan man expressing hope for a shift in Western countries’ stance on the Palestinian cause, while families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza urged against such recognition until their loved ones are returned.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Britain’s decision, stating that it rewards Hamas’s terrorism. Netanyahu reiterated concerns over the potential threats posed by an independent Palestinian state and emphasized the necessity for Israel to retain control over security.
Deaths resulting from starvation and malnutrition continue to rise in Gaza, with reports of a two-year-old girl succumbing to hunger due to lack of essential medication and resources. The toll from starvation-related causes has climbed to 154, including a significant number of children.
Efforts to alleviate the crisis in Gaza have seen limited success, with the United Nations noting that while more food is entering Gaza during military pauses, the volume remains insufficient. Despite some improvements in market conditions, aid distribution challenges persist, hampering effective relief efforts.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which commenced in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Gaza, with over 60,000 fatalities reported by the Gaza Health Ministry.
