**Gaza Mediators Intensify Ceasefire Efforts, Hamas Official Says**
The situation in Gaza remains volatile as mediators step up efforts to broker a new ceasefire and hostage release deal. A senior Hamas official has spoken to the BBC, stating that negotiations with Israel are stalled despite claims of “great progress” by US President Donald Trump.
According to the official, Israeli attacks across Gaza on Wednesday killed at least 45 Palestinians, including some who were seeking aid. The Hamas-run health ministry confirmed this number, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict.
**Hostage Release and Aid Distribution**
The comments from the Hamas official come as the Israeli military announced that seven soldiers were killed in a bomb attack on Tuesday claimed by Hamas. This incident has put further pressure on the negotiations, with the Israeli government seeking to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
In an attempt to improve aid distribution in Gaza, a new system known as GHF (Global Humanitarian Forum) was introduced. However, this move has been met with skepticism by some, who fear that it will not prevent aid from being stolen by Hamas. Unicef’s James Elder echoed these concerns, stating that as long as people are denied food, they will be forced to make difficult choices.
**Civilian Casualties Rise**
The civilian toll of the conflict continues to rise, with six more people, including one child, killed during an air strike early on Wednesday morning in Nuseirat Refugee Camp. This incident highlights the disproportionate impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.
“We only felt the destruction,” said Nader Ramadan, a resident of Gaza. “The bombardment intensified, the damages increased, and the invasion expanded in certain areas… what should we do?” he asked. The desperation and fear are palpable as people struggle to access food and basic necessities amidst the ongoing conflict.
**Israel’s Response**
In response to the deaths of their soldiers, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described it as a “difficult day for the people in Israel.” However, some politicians have questioned the purpose of the conflict. Moshe Gafni, a member of the United Torah Judaism party, asked in the Israeli parliament, “I don’t understand what we’re fighting for and for what purpose… when our soldiers are being killed every day?”
As the situation in Gaza remains tense, the international community waits with bated breath for a breakthrough in negotiations. Will a new ceasefire be brokered soon? Only time will tell.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
