Prisoner Exchange and Truce Extension Efforts
On the 55th day of the Israeli war on Gaza, two Israeli detainees were handed over by the Palestinian resistance in exchange for the expected release of 30 Palestinian prisoners. These prisoners include 8 women and 22 children.
Efforts are also being made to extend the truce in Gaza. Qatari and Egyptian negotiators are in contact to secure a two-day extension of the humanitarian truce. While Israeli officials are prepared for a battle in the south of Gaza, the military wing of Hamas has asked its fighters to be ready for renewed battles.
There are concerns that the Israeli occupation forces will resume their military campaign and move into the southern Gaza Strip after the truce ends.
However, Israeli Knesset Member Danny Danon has stated that the Israeli government is open to discussing a different deal to release men and soldiers detained by Hamas.
US Secretary of State's Visit and Western Attitudes
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has visited Israel for the sixth time since October 7. He attended the Israeli War Council during his visit.
There is mounting internal opposition in the US due to the Biden administration's support for the Israeli military attack in Gaza. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need to build a bridge beyond the ceasefire in Gaza and work towards a political process. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called Israel's actions in Gaza unacceptable, leading to diplomatic tensions between Israel and Spain.
The 56th Day
Resumption of Aggression and Truce Negotiations
On the 56th day of the war on Gaza, Israel launched new raids and airstrikes after the weeklong truce ended. This resulted in the death of approximately 178 people and hundreds of injuries within a few hours.
The Palestinian resistance engaged in clashes on multiple fronts and launched missile strikes at Israeli areas, including Tel Aviv, Ashdod, and the Gaza Strip.
The White House expressed its intention to resume the truce between Hamas and Israel. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Galant announced that their forces will continue military operations until their goals are achieved.
The United States, Israel, Egypt, and Qatar are working together to extend the humanitarian truce in Gaza. The US President, Joe Biden, is actively involved in these efforts.
Losses and Plans for a Buffer Zone
The renewed Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip caused significant losses. According to the information office in the Gaza Strip, over 6,000 children and 4,000 women were among the casualties. Many bodies remain under the rubble, making it difficult for specialized teams to recover them.
The number of missing people exceeded 6,500, and there are approximately 37,000 wounded individuals. Israel is preparing a detailed plan to establish a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip, which includes destroying Hamas, disarming Gaza, and ending extremism.
Clashes and Injuries
The resistance targeted the occupation forces in various locations and launched attacks on Tel Aviv, Ashdod, Ashkelon, and other areas. Nine Israeli soldiers were wounded in these attacks.
The Israeli army confirmed that five soldiers were injured due to mortar shelling near the town of Nirim in the Gaza Strip. Four soldiers were also injured in battles in northern Gaza.
