Israeli Military Actions in Gaza and West Bank Continue Amidst Controversial 'Phase Two' of US Ceasefire Plan
In a series of escalating events, Israel continues to carry out raids, demolitions, and arrests across the West Bank, resulting in a Palestinian man being shot and at least 80 people detained, according to Al Jazeera English. This is happening amidst the controversial 'Phase Two' of the US ceasefire plan and Israel's ongoing aggression in Gaza, leading to tens of thousands of children entering survival mode as reported by Middle East Eye.
Background and Context
The Trump administration has announced its ceasefire plan for Gaza is now in ‘Phase Two’, as reported by Al Jazeera English. However, this seems to have brought little relief to the people of Gaza, as Israeli bombings continue with over 80 percent of Gaza's infrastructure lying in ruins, according to Al Jazeera English.
In a separate report, TASS mentions that UN experts have called Israel's actions in Gaza after the truce ‘genocide without witness,’ with the document signed by more than 20 UN experts. Furthermore, The Hindu reports that Israeli troops have acknowledged killing 57 people around the vague ceasefire marking, known as the 'yellow line.'
Ongoing Aggression and its Impact
In the occupied West Bank, Israeli military and settler violence have soared, with Al Jazeera English reporting that Palestinian children are increasingly becoming targets. In one incident, a Palestinian child was shot dead by Israeli troops. The same outlet reports that legal appeals by Palestinians who have lived in occupied East Jerusalem for generations were denied in the new year, leading to mounting evictions.
Inside Gaza, The New York Times reports that Israel is closing Doctors Without Borders Clinics due to the aid group's refusal to comply with new Israeli rules restricting speech and demanding information on staff. This is causing distress among patients who rely on these clinics.
Reaction and Current Status
In reaction to these developments, The Times of Israel reports that 4 individuals were hospitalized following a settler attack on West Bank Bedouin encampment, resulting in homes and cars being torched. Amidst this violence, Palestinian families endure psychological torture
as Israel continues to hold 9,300 prisoners and has banned ICRC visits since Oct 2023, according to Al Jazeera English.
The U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, as reported by Corriere della Sera, announced the start of 'Phase Two' of the 20 Points Plan to end the Gaza conflict, warning that Hamas must respect the obligations or face serious consequences. However, this announcement comes amidst continuing violence, displacement, and a lack of relief for the residents of Gaza and the West Bank.
In conclusion, the situation remains volatile in Gaza and the West Bank, with continuing aggression from Israel and the impact of the controversial 'Phase Two' of the US ceasefire plan. The international community, including the UN and aid organizations, is closely monitoring the situation, as the future of thousands of Palestinian children and families hangs in the balance.