Israeli Strike Kills Three in Gaza as Truce Deal Falters

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) – The Israeli military fired on groups of Palestinians in different areas of Gaza City, resulting in multiple fatalities. Health officials reported that an airstrike targeting a group in Tuffah neighborhood claimed two lives and injured several others. In response, the Israeli forces confirmed they killed a militant who posed an imminent threat to their presence inside Gaza.

Separately, the Israeli military stated that forces operating in southern Gaza took out a militant who crossed into an area still controlled by Israel within the enclave. This incident is seen as a violation of the ceasefire brokered by the US between Israel and Hamas, which began last October following a major attack by Hamas on southern Israel.

Both sides have been trading accusations for breaches of the ceasefire since its inception in October. Meanwhile, the Gaza health ministry continues to document the rising death toll. More than 72,000 people, primarily civilians, have perished due to Israeli strikes since the ceasefire agreement took effect. The number rises to at least 460 civilian deaths this year alone.

In January, a second phase of the ceasefire deal will be implemented, with Israel set to withdraw troops further from Gaza, and Hamas is scheduled to cede control over the territory’s administration. However, both parties remain locked in disputes regarding compliance with the agreement.

Gaza has been significantly damaged since October 7 when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israeli territory, resulting in 1,200 fatalities according to Israeli estimates. The situation remains tense as neither side backs down from their respective grievances and accusations.