Although fewer and fewer people believed it possible, Israel and Hamas announced a ceasefire Wednesday. This should take effect on Sunday. Since the announcement, the Israeli army has reportedly ramped up its attacks, already killing around 116 people. Meanwhile, the Israeli government is questioning the agreement, although ratification is still possible.
The ceasefire was negotiated in collaboration with the leaders of Qatar, the United States and Egypt. They describe it as “an opportunity for peace,” despite continuing Israeli attacks.
The agreement is progressive and should be implemented in three phases. Under the terms of the deal, the Palestinian coalition will release 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Six hundred truckloads of humanitarian aid will be allowed into the Gaza Strip every day, but NGOs and Hamas leaders say this is not enough. They need more than a thousand trucks a day.
On Thursday, Doctors Against Genocide stressed the urgent need to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian, medical, and relief aid. The organization also called for investigations into the crimes committed by Israel in the Gaza Strip, as well as the targeting of medical professionals and journalists.
In a statement issued following the ceasefire announcement, the organization called for the immediate and unconditional release of health professionals held in Israeli prisons. It also called for these professionals to be protected as required by international law. (more...)
Finally a Ceasefire in Gaza, but Will It Hold?
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