Israel Strikes Kill 23 Amid Hamas-Fatah Agreement on Post-War Gaza Governance

Published at: December 4, 2024 4:34 AM

Updated at: December 4, 2024 6:53 AM

Israeli Strikes Kill 23 as Hamas and Fatah Agree on Post-War Gaza Administration

CAIRO: At least 23 Palestinians were killed in Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, with the majority of fatalities reported in Beit Lahiya, located on the northern edge of the enclave. Medics confirmed that eight people lost their lives in airstrikes targeting Beit Lahiya, while four others were killed in separate attacks within Gaza City.

Further casualties were reported when an Israeli airstrike hit Jabalia, Gaza's largest historic refugee camp in the north, killing two individuals and injuring several others. Another air attack struck Al-Falah School in Gaza City's Zeitoun suburb, which was sheltering displaced families, resulting in six deaths and numerous injuries. In the southern town of Rafah, three women were killed by Israeli drone fire, medics said.

The ongoing violence has brought the total death toll in Gaza to 44,502 since the start of Israel's military offensive on October 7, 2023. More than 105,454 individuals have been injured, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service reported that its operations in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun have been suspended for nearly four weeks due to attacks on their teams and critical fuel shortages.

Evacuation Orders Intensify

On Tuesday, the Israeli military issued fresh evacuation orders for residents in northern districts of Khan Yunis, a major city in southern Gaza. The army cited militant rocket fire as the reason for the directive, prompting families to flee westward before dawn. In a statement shared on X, the military urged residents to relocate immediately, claiming it was essential for their safety.

Hamas-Fatah Agreement on Gaza Governance

Meanwhile, Hamas and Fatah, led by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, announced an agreement to form a committee tasked with administering Gaza in the aftermath of the war. Negotiators from both sides disclosed that the proposed committee would consist of 10 to 15 non-partisan experts to manage critical sectors such as health, education, humanitarian aid, and reconstruction.

The agreement, brokered during Egyptian-led talks in Cairo, includes joint administration of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt, the only one not controlled by Israel. Fatah's delegation, led by Azzam al-Ahmad, returned to Ramallah on Tuesday to seek final approval from President Abbas. Hamas was represented by politburo member Khalil al-Hayya.

Trump's Ultimatum Praised by Israeli Leaders

Separately, Israeli leaders applauded U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for his strong stance on the release of prisoners held in Gaza. Trump declared on Truth Social that there would be severe consequences if the captives were not freed by his inauguration on January 20. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials praised Trump for focusing on Hamas rather than criticizing Israel.

The unfolding situation highlights escalating violence and complex diplomatic efforts surrounding Gaza’s future.