The Health Ministry has reported that another 6,000 people are missing and feared buried under the rubble in Gaza. This update comes as a four-day cease-fire agreement and the release of hostages were set to take effect. However, a senior Israeli official announced a last-minute delay, pushing the start of the cease-fire to Friday instead of Thursday.
The delay has caused frustration and uncertainty among the over 1.7 million Palestinians who have been displaced by the Israeli bombardment. Families in Israel are also anxious about the fate of their loved ones who were captured during Hamas’ attack in October.
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The Persian Gulf nation of Qatar, which played a crucial role in mediating with Hamas, has stated that a new time for the agreement will be announced soon. The United States and Egypt were also involved in negotiating the deal.
Despite hopes that the cease-fire would lead to a winding down of the war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the war would resume after the truce expires. Israel aims to destroy Hamas’ military capabilities, end its rule in Gaza, and secure the release of all captives held by Hamas and other groups.
Israeli forces have made significant advances in northern Gaza, claiming to have dismantled tunnels and destroyed much of Hamas’ infrastructure. However, Hamas’ infrastructure in other parts of Gaza remains intact, and Israel has threatened to launch wider operations in the south.
Under the truce deal, 50 hostages will be released in stages in exchange for the release of 150 Palestinian prisoners. The return of hostages could bring relief to families in Israel, who have been demonstrating for their release.
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The war has taken a heavy toll on Gaza, with over 11,000 Palestinians killed according to the Health Ministry. The collapse of the health system has hindered the counting of casualties, and an estimated 2,700 people are missing and believed to be buried under rubble.
The cease-fire is expected to allow for the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, including fuel and relief convoys. However, many Palestinians in Gaza remain displaced and unable to return home due to the damage caused by the war and the presence of Israeli troops.
