IDF attacks northern Gaza Strip, casualties reported 

Arab media reported today (Thursday) that one person was killed and wounded as a result of an attack by our forces in Shejaiya in the northern Gaza Strip, east of Gaza City.

Earlier this week, the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas expired, and since then the IDF has carried out a number of lone attacks against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip. At the end of the ceasefire, it was reported that an Israeli drone attacked Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, resulting in one dead and one wounded.

As of now, it appears that there is an impasse in the talks to continue the deal with the Hamas. Israel wants to drag out Stage 1 of the deal for a few more weeks, during which time it will bring about the release of as many hostages alive as possible, while Hamas is unwilling to proceed with a deal that does not include more than the implementation of Stage B.

Last week, Israel decided to adopt the ceasefire proposal put forward by U.S. President’s envoy, Steve Witkoff. The plan calls for a temporary cessation of hostilities during the period of Ramadan and Passover.

According to the proposal, half of the hostage - both the living and the deceased - would be released on the first day of the ceasefire. The remainder will be released at the end of the ceasefire period, provided that an agreement for a permanent cessation of hostilities is reached. However, the Hamas completely rejected this proposal.