Israel and Hamas seem to be edging closer to agreeing on a phased ceasefire, officials disclosed on Monday. However, negotiations have yet to conclude, and several hurdles remain that could derail discussions taking place in Qatar.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas fighters launched an attack on southern Israel, has persisted for over 15 months. This initial assault resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and around 250 abductions. Current estimates suggest that a third of the approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza may have died.
According to health services in Gaza, more than 46,000 Palestinians have lost their lives during the conflict, although the figures do not differentiate between combatants and civilians. Reports indicate that women and children account for over half of these casualties.
**Recent Attacks in Gaza**
On Monday, at least 14 Palestinians, including a family of five, were reported killed due to three separate Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza. Medics identified that one strike in the Daraj neighborhood of Gaza City resulted in the deaths of seven people, including two minors. Additionally, two casualties were reported in Jabaliya al-Balad in northern Gaza, while a further strike at the Salaheddin school—serving as a shelter for displaced families—claimed the lives of two parents and their three children.
The Israeli military has yet to comment on these specific strikes but previously attributed civilian casualties to Hamas, claiming militants operate within residential areas.
**Fatalities from Rocket Fire**
In another incident, a 75-year-old Israeli woman, Tamar Edri, succumbed to injuries sustained from rocket fire originating from Lebanon. She was critically injured when a rocket struck her home in Nahariya on November 25, just before a ceasefire was initiated between Israel and Lebanon. The incident occurred during a period marked by frequent attacks on the region.
Following a ceasefire that took effect on November 27, circumstances have remained tense, with previous exchanges of fire resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
**Lebanon’s New Prime Minister**
In Lebanon, Nawaf Salam, a prominent diplomat and judge, has gained majority support from legislators, clearing the way for his appointment as the new prime minister. Salam, currently the head of the International Court of Justice, was nominated by Western-backed groups and independents within the Lebanese parliament, receiving backing from both Saudi Arabia and western nations.
This nomination is viewed as a significant setback for Hezbollah, a potent political entity in Lebanon, which has seen its militant wing weakened through an extended conflict with Israel. Salam’s endorsement in the parliament, alongside President Joseph Aoun’s recent appointment, is expected to facilitate the inflow of international financial support to aid Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts following years of conflict and an economic crisis.
**Diplomatic Progress on Ceasefire Talks**
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressed optimism on Monday regarding the ongoing discussions between Israel and Hamas. He indicated that meaningful strides have been made toward finalizing a hostage and ceasefire deal. Sullivan noted that he had engaged in talks with officials from Qatar and Israel about these negotiations and emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity.
**Prisoner Status of Gaza Hospital Director**
In other news, an Israeli organization has confirmed that Hossam Abu Safiya, the director of a hospital in northern Gaza, is being held in a notorious Israeli military prison after he was taken by troops during a raid. Physicians for Human Rights-Israel reported that Abu Safiya will not be permitted to meet with his lawyer until late January. He has been accused of collaborating with or working for Hamas; however, colleagues express serious concerns about his safety and the treatment he may be facing in custody.
**Protests in Germany**
Meanwhile, in Germany, a woman protesting against Israeli actions in Gaza interrupted a campaign event held by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Her actions drew attention to ongoing tensions, as she smeared her face with a substance resembling blood while shouting slogans condemning violence in the region. In response, Scholz reiterated his unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself after the deadly attacks from Hamas.
**Ongoing Challenges in Ceasefire Negotiations**
While indirect negotiations continue, both Israel and Hamas have encountered numerous challenges, including the logistics of a potential prisoner exchange and the terms of a ceasefire. The conflict remains deep-rooted, with mediators, including the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, working tirelessly to facilitate progress amid a backdrop of prolonged hostilities.
