Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in at least 17 Palestinian fatalities, adding to an earlier death toll of 18, as both parties approach a potential ceasefire agreement to end the 15-month conflict. Hamas has accepted a ceasefire draft, which includes the release of numerous hostages. Negotiations have progressed, with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Secretary of State Antony Blinken advocating for an agreement.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz support prioritizing a ceasefire and hostage release, despite domestic opposition. In related developments, Syria’s Islamist group HTS is conducting security operations following Assad’s ouster, and Qatar is mediating the ceasefire deal. Additionally, Yemen’s Houthi rebels have targeted Israeli territory, escalating regional tensions.
