Israeli airstrikes in Gaza kill 28 mere hours after ceasefire agreement, which goes into effect on Sunday
TEL AVIV / WASHINGTON, D.C. — Mere hours after announcing a ceasefire agreement in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli military launched airstrikes on the territory, reportedly killing at least 28 Palestinians.
The ceasefire, expected to take effect on Sunday, was overshadowed by renewed violence as Israeli airstrikes targeted Gaza. The attacks left at least 28 Palestinians dead, according to local health officials.
Blinken’s Vision for Gaza Governance
The airstrikes came after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined a proposal for Gaza’s future governance. Speaking during a press briefing, Blinken suggested that the Palestinian Authority (PA) assume administrative control of Gaza, with temporary support from the United Nations and other international entities.
Blinken stated that the plan includes an Israeli withdrawal and the formation of a governing authority led by the PA. He emphasized the importance of unifying Gaza and the West Bank under reformed Palestinian leadership, along with comprehensive reforms within the PA itself.
Israeli Criticism of Blinken’s Proposal
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed strong opposition to Blinken’s proposal, claiming that handing governance of Gaza to the PA would effectively place Hamas in control. Saar insisted that the PA must end financial support to individuals linked to terrorism, referencing conditions previously highlighted by the European Union.
The developments mark a significant escalation in the region’s ongoing conflict, raising questions about the viability of the proposed ceasefire and the path forward for governance in Gaza.