Israel-Gaza Conflict | Netanyahu claims surrenders amid humanitarian ceasefire efforts

New Delhi, Dec 11: Hamas has issued a chilling threat, declaring that no hostage in Gaza will be allowed to leave alive unless their demands for a prisoner exchange are met. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu countered this assertion, announcing that dozens of Hamas militants have surrendered. Netanyahu went further, characterizing the situation as "the beginning of the end" for the group and urging other Hamas members to surrender or face consequences.

Amidst the escalating conflict, Palestinian activists are mobilizing for a global strike, aiming to exert coordinated pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire. Criticism mounts against the United Nations for its perceived failure to apply pressure or organize a ceasefire, leading to a decline in its reputation as a "toothless tiger." Despite the General Secretary assurances to continue pursuing a ceasefire and provide aid to suffering Palestinians in Gaza, challenges persist.

Israel remains steadfast in its stance, expressing an unwillingness to end the war until it achieves the goal of dismantling Hamas. The United States, while claiming to put pressure on a ceasefire and hostage exchange, paradoxically vetoed such efforts at the UN Security Council last week.

Reports indicate that representatives of UN Security Council member countries are visiting the border between Egypt and the Gaza Strip. Orchestrated by the United Arab Emirates, this unofficial mission follows the defeat of a resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, with the notable absence of the US and Gabon from the delegation.

Responding to the escalating situation, Israel continues to issue evacuation orders for civilians in the centre of Khan Younis, aiming to safeguard them from the crossfire and potential Israeli attacks on specific locations. Israeli tanks have advanced to the city's main north-south road, while airstrikes continue in the western region.

Qatar has again entered the fray, attempting to mediate a ceasefire and secure the release of over 100 remaining hostages. Despite acknowledging the narrowing chances of a new ceasefire, Qatar pledges to maintain pressure on both Israel and Hamas.

The conflict, initiated by Hamas nine weeks ago with an attack on Israel, has resulted in 1,200 casualties and the abduction of 240 hostages. Some hostages were released during a brief truce. The Gaza health ministry reports that Israel's retaliatory actions have led to the death of approximately 18,000 people.