Unending Conflict in Gaza Strip: Calls for Extended Ceasefire Amidst Escalating Tensions

Israeli opposition politician Benny Gantz is calling for a one to two-year ceasefire in the Gaza Strip to free the hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu has not commented on the ceasefire negotiations. Hamas accuses Israel of not responding to the offer.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon shows no signs of ending soon. Despite Israel's initial goal of achieving a swift and decisive victory, the reality has proven to be different. Both sides have diametrically opposed views on the conflict, with Hamas seeing it as a long-term struggle that it believes it will ultimately win. The ongoing fighting has also led to diplomatic isolation for Israel and accusations of war crimes, while the conflict with Hezbollah in..

Despite initial support, Hamas has seen a decline in popularity among Gazans as the war continues, leading more residents to openly criticize the group. Many blame Hamas for starting the conflict and bringing destruction upon them, even as they hold Israel accountable as well.

Eight Israeli soldiers were killed in the southern Gaza Strip, as forces continued fighting in Rafah, with strikes hitting several areas of Gaza, leading to at least 19 Palestinian deaths. Despite international pressure for a ceasefire, the agreement seems distant, with ongoing cross-border exchanges of fire and Israeli airstrikes causing casualties in Gaza.