What's happened
Israeli airstrikes have continued in Gaza since a fragile ceasefire took effect in October, with casualties reported across Jabaliya, Khan Younis, and Rafah. Palestinian health officials say the toll includes civilians and militants, while Israel says strikes target militants and infrastructure. The death toll stands at about 1,100 to 1,123 Palestinians, with five Israeli soldiers killed since the ceasefire.
What's behind the headline?
Brief
- The ceasefire has reduced the scale of fighting but ongoing strikes keep civilian casualties high.
- Different publishers provide similar casualty tallies, highlighting the humanitarian toll across Gaza.
- The conflict remains dynamic as operations shift between Gaza City, Jabaliya, Khan Younis, and Rafah.
What this means
- The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains precarious, with displacement and limited services persisting for millions.
- International mediation efforts continue to press for a second phase of the ceasefire, including disarmament and reconstruction.
Forecast
- If strikes persist at current levels, civilian harm will likely continue and international pressure to sustain aid flows will intensify.
How we got here
Since Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, triggering a protracted conflict. A ceasefire was agreed in October to halt major hostilities, but fighting and strikes have continued at a lower intensity. Health ministries in Gaza provide casualty tallies, while Israel’s military asserts strikes target militants and “infrastructure” blamed for attacks.
Our analysis
AP News reports from Gaza City, Jabaliya, Khan Younis, and Rafah; Independent coverage of hospital casualty tallies and military statements; Gaza Health Ministry updates with casualty counts.
Go deeper
- What is the current status of the ceasefire agreement's second phase?
- How many civilians remain displaced in Gaza, and what aid is reaching them?
- Which communities are most at risk from ongoing strikes?
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