Israel Intensifies Airstrikes on Gaza, Killing 70 Palestinians, After Ceasefire Deal

Jan 16, 2025, 09:24 AM

Israel intensified its airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 Palestinians, just hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced between Israel and Hamas. The agreement, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, was set to commence on Sunday and included a six-week initial ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The deal also outlined the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel. Despite the ceasefire announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued, targeting various locations in Gaza including Rafah, Nuseirat, and the north of Gaza. The escalation in violence has raised concerns about the implementation of the ceasefire, with mediators working to quell the fighting ahead of the truce's start. The ceasefire deal aims to halt the 15-month conflict that has devastated Gaza, killed tens of thousands, and displaced a significant portion of its population. In Doha, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced that the truce would take effect on Sunday. President Joe Biden stated that the agreement would stop the fighting, deliver humanitarian aid, and reunite hostages with their families. Former President Donald J. Trump, who is set to return to office on Monday, also claimed credit for the breakthrough. An Israeli official said the agreement would not become official until it is approved by the country’s security cabinet and government, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposing last-minute concessions from Hamas.