Israel has agreed to extend the temporary ceasefire in Gaza following US envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposal to halt hostilities during Ramadhan and Passover, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
Reports indicate that the decision was made after the first phase of the ceasefire deal was set to expire on March 3.
The extension aims to ease tensions during the religious holidays, though specific details regarding its implementation are yet to be disclosed.
As Ramadhan begins, many across the world welcome the month with prayer and fasting. However, in Gaza, the atmosphere remains heavy with sorrow and uncertainty. The echoes of war continue to haunt Palestinians, who fear that fighting could resume at any moment.
Meanwhile, reports state, “thousands of Israelis are protesting on Begin Street in Tel Aviv, demanding the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza and the completion of the second phase of the ceasefire deal.”
Also read: Cairo hosts talks on second phase of Gaza ceasefire
The 14-month-long war has resulted in approximately 61,000 Palestinian deaths, with an estimated 110,000 people injured since October 7, 2023.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, marking one of the deadliest assaults in the country’s history.
The attack began early in the morning, with thousands of rockets fired from Gaza, targeting Israeli cities and towns.
Simultaneously, Hamas militants breached Israel’s borders using vehicles, low-flying paragliders, and on foot, storming military bases and civilian areas, particularly in communities near the Gaza Strip.
According to credible figures, the assault left 1,139 people dead, including Israeli army personnel and foreign tourists. Hamas also took over 200 captives, comprising both Israeli and foreign nationals.
Following the attack, Israel declared war on Hamas, launching extensive airstrikes and a ground invasion of Gaza.
The October 7 assault remains the deadliest single day for Israel in decades, leading to an ongoing war that has resulted in thousands of casualties on both sides and a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Also read: Israeli army admits 'complete failure' on Oct 7
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