A ceasefire was expected to halt the five-day-long conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militants in Gaza. However, the truce got off to a shaky start as both sides continued firing for two hours after the designated ceasefire time. Israel reported striking PIJ targets, resulting in the death of at least 33 Palestinians, while Palestinian rocket fire into Israel claimed the lives of one Israeli and one Palestinian individual. Egypt played a pivotal role in mediating the ceasefire and urged both parties to adhere to the agreement. The United States welcomed the ceasefire and acknowledged its efforts in achieving a resolution.
As the ceasefire was about to come into effect, barrages of Palestinian rockets triggered warning sirens in southern Israel and near Tel Aviv. Despite the supposed start of the ceasefire, militants launched additional rockets, prompting Israeli airstrikes on two PIJ rocket launchers in Gaza. More rocket fire drew further rounds of air strikes later in the evening.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the ceasefire, expressing gratitude to Egypt for its intensive efforts. Israel reiterated that its acceptance of the ceasefire was contingent on reciprocal peace, emphasizing its commitment to self-defense if attacked or threatened. PIJ also confirmed the ceasefire, affirming its compliance as long as Israel abides by it.
The ceasefire agreement, according to information from Egyptian intelligence, includes a commitment from both sides to refrain from targeting civilians and other individuals. This formulation appears to address the recent intense rocket fire from Gaza and Israel’s controversial policy of targeted killings of militant leaders.
Israel initiated its military operation in Gaza, targeting PIJ, resulting in the deaths of three leaders and several civilians, including family members and neighbors. In response, PIJ launched rocket barrages aimed at southern and central Israel as retaliation. Over 1,200 rockets and mortars were fired from Gaza, with most intercepted or landing in open areas, but some causing damage to homes and buildings.
Throughout the conflict, civilian casualties mounted, with at least seven children and four women among the 33 people killed in Gaza. The Israeli military claimed that 221 rockets fell short inside Gaza, resulting in four deaths, including three children, although PIJ denied this allegation. Israel conducted numerous airstrikes on PIJ targets, including rocket launch sites and command centers, resulting in the deaths of three additional leaders.
As the ceasefire took effect, the region remained on edge, hopeful for a respite from the escalating violence, but uncertain about the durability of the truce. The international community closely monitored the situation, emphasizing the need for sustained calm and diplomatic efforts to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.