Gaza, March 16, 2025: Tensions in Gaza are rising as Hamas hardens its stance on ceasefire negotiations following Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed nine people.
The ceasefire’s first phase ended two weeks ago, but Israel has not implemented the second phase, which includes a full withdrawal, the release of all hostages, and a definitive end to hostilities. While full-scale war has not resumed, Israeli airstrikes have intensified, killing dozens in recent weeks.
On Saturday, two airstrikes in northern Gaza reportedly killed nine, including three Palestinian journalists. One strike targeted a drone operated by journalist Mahmoud Aslim, who was surveying potential tent sites for a charity. A second hit a vehicle evacuating the wounded. The Israeli military claimed it struck militants posing a threat but provided no evidence.
Hamas accused Israel of “deliberate killings” to sabotage the ceasefire and prisoner exchange. The Gaza Health Ministry reported 19 deaths in the past 48 hours, bringing the toll in Israel’s 15-month offensive to over 48,500, mostly civilians. Hamas still holds 59 hostages, 35 of whom are believed dead.
Hamas reaffirmed it would release American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander only if Israel implements the January ceasefire agreement. The U.S. dismissed the offer as a stalling tactic with unrealistic demands. Indirect ceasefire talks in Egypt and Qatar continue, but the U.S. has accused Hamas of being inflexible in private negotiations.
Israel has tightened its blockade, cutting off food, fuel, and electricity to Gaza’s 2 million residents to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal. Hamas insists it will only release hostages if Israel lifts the blockade, withdraws from the Gaza-Egypt border, and frees more Palestinian prisoners.
The war has devastated Gaza, displacing most of its population. The first phase of the ceasefire saw Israel withdraw to a buffer zone, release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, and allow increased humanitarian aid in exchange for 25 Israeli hostages and the remains of eight others.
