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US envoy seeks Gaza ceasefire amid mounting humanitarian crisis
US special envoy Steve Witkoff has held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and revive stalled ceasefire negotiations. The discussions come amid growing international pressure on Israel over the destruction in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Ceasefire talks at an impasse
Indirect negotiations in Doha between Israel and Hamas recently ended without agreement, with both sides blaming each other for the deadlock. Core disputes include the scope of an Israeli military withdrawal and terms for a proposed 60-day ceasefire. The US-backed plan suggests a prisoner exchange involving Palestinian detainees and Israeli hostages.
Despite Israel sending a response to Hamas’ latest adjustments to the proposal, no comments have been issued by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israeli officials have suggested annexing parts of Gaza if an agreement is not reached.
Worsening conditions in Gaza
The humanitarian toll continues to rise. At least 156 people have died from starvation and malnutrition, including 90 children, according to Gaza's health ministry. Medical officials also report that recent Israeli strikes have killed 23 people, including civilians gathered for aid near the Netzarim corridor.
Israel has pledged to pause military operations for 10 hours daily in certain areas to allow aid to flow. However, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has warned that the aid delivered so far is insufficient. Civilians attempting to access supplies face risks from both Israeli forces and looters.
Calls for de-escalation
International actors, including Qatar and Egypt, are pushing for a ceasefire, supported by a joint declaration from France and Saudi Arabia advocating a two-state solution and urging Hamas to disarm. Israel has rejected the proposal, opposing the Palestinian Authority’s control over Gaza.
The war, which has claimed over 60,000 Palestinian lives, has intensified pressure on Hamas to negotiate. Protests in Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are also demanding an end to the conflict. However, Netanyahu has vowed to continue military operations until Hamas relinquishes control of Gaza.
International recognition of Palestine
The crisis has spurred renewed debate over Palestinian statehood. Canada joined France and Britain in signaling potential recognition of a Palestinian state, drawing sharp criticism from Israel. Israeli officials argue this rewards Hamas for its October 2023 attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to the abduction of 251 hostages.