GAZA: Just days after launching intense airstrikes, Israel began a ground assault in Gaza late Sunday night. Reports indicate that at least 151 people were killed in the overnight attacks, and several hospitals have reportedly shut down due to the escalation.
The offensive comes at a time when international actors are actively engaged in efforts to restore peace in Gaza. Indirect talks between Hamas and Israeli officials had already begun in Doha on Saturday.
On Sunday, Israel reiterated its demand for Hamas to surrender, though there appears to be little indication that Hamas is willing to comply.
Previously, reports had suggested that Hamas had agreed to release seven to nine hostages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of three Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody.
However, just hours later, senior Hamas leader Abu Jahar dismissed those reports as baseless. Israel’s recent “Gideon’s Charitos” operation on Friday was reportedly intended to pressure Hamas into negotiations.
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