Escalation of Violence in Gaza Despite Ceasefire Agreement

Three Palestinians were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza despite a ceasefire. The ongoing blockade has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with hospitals lacking supplies and children facing food and water shortages. A Hamas delegation will engage in ceasefire negotiations in Cairo amidst these deteriorating conditions.

On Monday, three Palestinians lost their lives and several others sustained injuries due to a drone strike executed by the Israeli military in central Gaza, despite the ongoing ceasefire agreement. The airstrike specifically targeted the Wadi Gaza area, as confirmed by the Gaza Ministry of Health. Additionally, another Palestinian was killed in a separate strike near Kuwait Roundabout, located southeast of the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood. The cumulative death toll in Gaza since the Israeli offensive commenced on October 7, 2023, has reached 48,577, with over 112,000 individuals injured.

This escalation occurs amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s blockade of the Kerem Shalom border crossing, a critical entry point for aid and fuel. The blockade has persisted for 16 days, severely impacting the healthcare sector with hospitals experiencing critical shortages in medical supplies. Moreover, the closure has hindered transportation, obstructing the movement of injured and sick individuals to medical facilities. Ongoing power shortages have led to the shutdown of water desalination plants, worsening the already acute water crisis in the region.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has reported that no humanitarian aid has entered Gaza since March 2. UNICEF has further warned that one million Palestinian children are experiencing severe food and water shortages, putting their survival at even greater risk.

Simultaneously, a delegation from Hamas is expected to arrive in Cairo within two days upon an invitation from Egypt. They are set to engage in negotiations regarding the potential extension of the ceasefire, based on a proposal put forth by U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein. Despite these ongoing diplomatic efforts, conditions in Gaza continue to worsen, heightening concerns regarding the escalating humanitarian crisis.

The tragic incident in Gaza highlights the complex and dire humanitarian situation currently faced by its residents. Despite ceasefire negotiations and diplomatic efforts, the ongoing blockade and violence continue to take a severe toll, particularly on vulnerable populations such as children. As conditions deteriorate, the urgent need for humanitarian aid and support becomes increasingly critical.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com