Fragile ceasefire in Gaza tested as Israeli strikes resume after hostage deal period

Gaza,Isreal
After weeks of a fragile ceasefire brokered under a high-profile diplomatic arrangement, Israeli forces resumed targeted strikes in parts of Gaza on Oct. 30 — a development that threatens to unravel a ceasefire that has struggled to contain sporadic violence.

International mediators and aid agencies have hailed the ceasefire that included hostage-prisoner exchanges and an agreed drawdown of large-scale operations. But reports from Oct. 30 indicate Israeli air and tank strikes struck positions near Khan Younis and Gaza City; Israeli military sources justified actions as responses to threats within zones that remain under operational scrutiny. Gaza health authorities reported civilian casualties in prior escalations, and humanitarian agencies warn any renewed fighting would worsen the already dire aid and shelter situation.

Diplomats in Cairo and Washington urged restraint as negotiators work to shore up the agreement’s implementation mechanisms. Previous arrangements called for phased prisoner releases, withdrawal of some Israeli forces, and substantial humanitarian corridors — but disagreements over disarmament and governance of Gaza remain unresolved. Observers say the ceasefire’s sustainability depends on clear, enforceable arrangements and delivery of promised aid.