The Palestinian enclave of Gaza is a major global hotspot with potential for extreme violence. Nearly isolated from the world since Hamas took control of it in 2007, it has been a poverty -ridden corner of the world. It is a regular launching pad for rocket attacks against southern Israel and a training ground for Islamist terrorists. Israel has carried out three major operations in the territory since relinquishing it unilaterally in 2005.
A senior Egyptian official added: “The US administration has conveyed to Arab states that it is open to alternative plans regarding Gaza, beyond Trump’s initiative.”
Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff stated that Hamas is a terrorist organization that should not be allowed to be part of the government in any part of Gaza.
There is now an awareness that Hamas is a movement informed by decades-old ideology whose roots reach all the way to Nazi propaganda.
A three-stage deal to release hostages has been reached • Ninety-eight hostages remain in Gaza, 33 to be released in first phase
Some sources confirmed that the early stages of such preparations are underway, while others have not denied them.
Trump said he's thrilled American and Israeli hostages will return to be united with their families and loved ones.
Some terrorists with life sentences expected to be released in deal • None of 33 hostages set for release confirmed as dead
The Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation called for the arrest of three Nachal Brigade soldiers for alleged war crimes after they entered the Netherlands on Thursday.
Only a generous Israeli incentive to whoever fills in Sinwar’s shoes can bring the incumbent war in Gaza to an end if such an end is what Israel needs.
By some measures the poverty level in Gaza was now approaching 100% as a result of the disruption, with unemployment now at 80%.
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