Gaza, Israeli offensive on a large scale: over 100 dead in 24 hours, negotiations underway in Doha

Air raids, ground operations and destruction of tunnels in Deir el-Balah and Rafah. Glimmers in negotiations for a ceasefire and release of hostages

The Israeli Army (IDF) is intensifying its military operations in the Gaza Strip with a new large-scale offensive. According to Al Jazeera reports, armoured military vehicles are advancing under heavy shelling in the south-eastern area of Deir el-Balah, in the centre of the Strip. Artillery fire also hit the areas of Abu Holi, Abu al-Ajin and al-Jafarawi, while explosions were heard in the al-Qarara area in Khan Younis.

The IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman said on X that Israel is increasing pressure on Hamas “from the heart of Rafah and to the gates of Khan Younis”, reiterating its commitment to destroying the military infrastructure of the group, classified as a terrorist organisation by the United States, the European Union and other countries.

In the north of the Strip, the IDF announced the destruction of a strategic tunnel about two kilometres long, used by Hamas, and the neutralisation of dozens of armed fighters. Troops also discovered underground accesses, explosives and rocket launchers.

The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reports 153 dead and 459 wounded in the last 24 hours. Since the beginning of the conflict on 7 October 2023, the toll has risen to 53,272 dead and 120,673 injured. In the last few hours alone, at least 115 Palestinians have been killed, according to local sources.

Meanwhile, on the diplomatic front, a source briefed on the ongoing talks in Doha spoke of “the possibility of a breakthrough in the next 24 hours”. The plan calls for the immediate release of ten hostages and a ceasefire lasting 45-60 days. On the tenth day, Hamas is expected to provide a detailed list of the hostages’ status. In return, the release of some 200-250 Palestinian detainees is expected.

The Israeli delegation, which was allowed to remain in the Qatari capital, continues the negotiations, while a meeting between the chief negotiator of Hamas, Khalil al-Hayya, and the Qatari premier Mohammed al-Thani is planned in the evening.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)