The Palestinian Hamas movement’s armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam brigades, claimed responsibility for rocket fire near Kerem Shalom, the primary crossing point for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. This led to the Israeli army closing the crossing in response. The al-Qassam Brigades released a video accompanying their statement, showing that they had struck enemy forces in the area with short-range rockets.
Following the incident, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that around 10 projectiles were fired from near Rafah Crossing towards Kerem Shalom. In response, IAF fighter jets targeted the launcher from where these projectiles were launched and also hit a military structure in the launcher area. The IDF accused Hamas of using humanitarian facilities to launch attacks on civilians and exploiting human shields by placing civilian populations at risk.
The escalation of violence in this area highlights how ongoing is the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The closure of Kerem Shalom crossing affects critical humanitarian aid delivery to people in Gaza, making an already dire situation even more problematic for them. It is urgent that efforts are made to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution to this conflict before further harm is done to civilians on both sides.
The Ezzedine al-Qassam brigades have been responsible for numerous attacks against Israel over the years, including suicide bombings and rocket launches. These attacks have resulted in many deaths and injuries among civilians on both sides of the conflict.
The Israeli army has repeatedly called on Palestinians to stop targeting civilians with their actions. They argue that such actions only lead to further violence and hinder progress towards peace negotiations.
Hamas has maintained its stance that it will not negotiate with Israel until it recognizes its right to self-determination and withdraws from occupied lands.
As tensions continue between Hamas and Israel, it remains uncertain when a lasting peace agreement can be reached. However, one thing is clear: any escalation of violence will only lead to more suffering among innocent people caught up in this complex political situation.
In conclusion, efforts must be made urgently by all parties involved to find a peaceful solution to this conflict before it is too late for everyone involved. Only then can we hope for a brighter future for Palestinians living in Gaza Strip and beyond.