Israel intensifies strikes on Gaza amid growing pressure to secure release of hostages

In a renewed offensive on Sunday, Israel conducted fresh airstrikes on Gaza, facing increasing demands to secure the release of hostages still held in the Hamas-run territory over two months after the October 7 attacks.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu encountered protests on Saturday from relatives of hostages, urging an urgent deal for their freedom following the army’s admission of mistakenly killing three captives in Gaza.

These three were part of the estimated 250 people taken hostage during Hamas’s October 7 raids into Israel, resulting in about 1,140 casualties, as reported by Israeli authorities.

Hamas, in retaliation, claimed that Israel’s offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of 18,800 people, primarily women and children.

Relatives of hostages gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday, pleading with the government for a negotiation plan.

Over 100 Israelis and foreigners seized on October 7 were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners during a week-long truce last month, mediated by Qatar.

Despite the tragic deaths of three hostages, Netanyahu reinforced his commitment to the military effort, emphasizing its necessity for both the return of the kidnapped and victory over enemies.

On Sunday, Israeli strikes on the central city of Deir al-Balah, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, claimed at least 12 lives. Witnesses also reported strikes on the southern municipality of Bani Suhaila.

Addressing Qatari efforts for a new truce, Netanyahu expressed serious criticisms but prioritized the recovery of hostages.

Qatar, in a statement, reaffirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts, while Hamas insisted on a complete halt to aggression before any negotiations for the exchange of prisoners.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced his travel to Israel, Bahrain, and Qatar, emphasizing Washington’s commitment to regional security.

Israeli spy chief David Barnea reportedly met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in an effort to navigate diplomatic solutions.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with hunger and desperation driving people to seize humanitarian aid.

The UN warns of a potential breakdown of civil order, with the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees expressing concerns about hunger, disease, and weak immunity.

Amid international pressure, Israel announced a temporary measure to allow aid deliveries directly to Gaza.

Fierce fighting persisted on Saturday, with the Israeli army raiding two schools in northern Gaza City, claiming they were Hamas hiding places.

The conflict’s toll includes 121 Israeli soldiers killed since ground operations began in late October, as well as civilian casualties, such as a Christian mother and daughter shot by an Israeli soldier on the grounds of Gaza’s only Catholic church.

The war’s impact extends beyond the immediate region, with fears of a broader conflict.

Regular fire exchanges with Iran-backed Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border and disruptions to the Red Sea shipping lane highlight the escalating consequences of the ongoing conflict.

Major shipping companies redirecting vessels and attacks by Yemeni rebels allied with Hamas further contribute to the geopolitical complexities surrounding the situation. The conflict also sees no reprieve for journalists, with over 60 media personnel losing their lives since its inception, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.