Egypt has presented a new initiative to help restore the ceasefire in Gaza, as per security sources on Monday. Palestinian health authorities reported that Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 65 individuals in Gaza over the past 24 hours.
The new proposal was submitted last week amid heightened violence following Israel’s recent air and ground operations in Gaza, ending a period of relative calm lasting two months. Health officials stated that nearly 700 Palestinians, including around 400 women and children, have been killed by Israeli actions since the resumption of attacks.
Tragically, two local journalists, Mohammad Mansour and Hussam Shabat, were among those killed on Monday, according to medics. The Palestinian Journalist Syndicate highlighted that over 200 journalists have lost their lives to Israeli fire in Gaza since October 2023 when the conflict began.
Following Shabat’s death, his team shared a poignant statement he had penned before his tragic passing. Hamas also reported the loss of senior political and security officials in the violence.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) later alleged that Shabat, posing as an Al Jazeera journalist, was actually a sniper affiliated with Hamas. The IDF provided documents suggesting his connection to the militant group, but Al Jazeera had previously refuted similar accusations in 2024.
In another incident, the Israeli military mistakenly fired at a Red Cross building in Rafah, causing operational disruptions for the aid organization. This action was later acknowledged as a misidentification, and an investigation was promised.
The Egyptian plan for Gaza involves a phased hostage release by Hamas in exchange for Israel’s withdrawal from the region, backed by U.S. assurances. While the U.S. and Hamas have reportedly agreed to the proposal, Israel’s response is pending.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating previous ceasefire terms but expressed willingness to engage in negotiations for a new truce. The ongoing conflict has displaced thousands of Palestinians, with the UN planning to reduce its presence in Gaza following casualties among its staff.
