In the wake of 44 days since the commencement of the conflict between Palestine and Israel, global efforts for an early ceasefire faced a setback as Israel persisted in missile strikes, claiming the lives of countless innocent Palestinians. The grim toll stands at 13,000 casualties, a devastating number that includes 5,500 children and 3,500 women. The humanitarian crisis intensifies with over 30,000 people sustaining injuries.
Amidst this turmoil, the media played a less-than-constructive role, with Western narratives consistently condemning Palestine, unfairly assigning blame for the conflict. Additionally, the circulation of fabricated videos further distorted the image of innocent Palestinians, exacerbating the challenges they faced.
Read: Israeli Satirical Account Under Fire For Falsely Using M’sian Video To Falsely Portray Palestinians
However, people wanted to portray the war, a significant oversight by the media was their failure to highlight Hamas's humane treatment of the elderly. Many, including hostages, commended Hamas for their fair and compassionate treatment, shedding light on a perspective that sided with Palestine. These sparked voices suggesting that Israel's narrative had misled people into perceiving themselves as victims in the conflict.
Read: Humanitarian Treatment Of Israeli Hostages By Hamas Garners Praises From Released Hostages
The First Pause The War Has Seen
Recently, it was reported that Israel, Hamas, and the United States have reached a preliminary agreement. This deal aims to release dozens of women and children held hostage in Gaza in exchange for a five-day ceasefire.
The detailed six-page agreement stipulates a cessation of combat operations for at least five days, during which an initial group of 50 or more hostages will be released in smaller batches every 24 hours. This arrangement also facilitates the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, according to a report by The Washington Post. While the pause is in effect, there will be "overhead surveillance" monitoring ground movement. The release of hostages is expected to commence in the next few days, marking the potential "first sustained pause in conflict in Gaza."
The only uncertainty at the moment is the specific number of hostages slated for release in the agreement. Various sources claim that Hamas seized approximately 240 people during the Gaza attacks, with many being held in Gaza. However, a White House spokesperson affirmed that no deal had been reached between Hamas and Israel. The U.S. is actively working to negotiate an agreement.
Are There Chances Of The War Fully Stopping?
Thousands of family members and supporters of the hostages held in Gaza marched into Jerusalem on Saturday (Nov. 18), appealing to the government for the return of their loved ones, as reported by AP.
The Israeli government aims to both "crush Hamas" and secure the release of the hostages. According to Israeli National Security Council head Tzachi Hanegbi, a "limited and short" ceasefire would only be considered in the event of a "massive release of our hostages." The goal is to continue working toward achieving war objectives after such a release, as stated by Hanegbi and reported by The Washington Post on Nov. 17.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized on Saturday (Nov. 18) that the offensive would persist, but he acknowledged the importance of humanitarian aid for ongoing international support. Consequently, an agreement was reached to permit fuel into Gaza.
China Playing A Role In Hopes Of The Longer Ceasefire
From Left: Xi Jinping, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Ayman Safadi
Amidst ongoing hostilities between Hamas and Israel, a delegation comprising Arab and Islamic foreign ministers is set to visit China as part of a mediation effort to end the conflict. The tour, scheduled for November 20 to 21, includes prominent figures such as Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi.
The visit aims to facilitate communication and coordination with China on de-escalating the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, protecting civilians, and seeking a just settlement of the Palestinian question. This initiative is the first step following decisions made at a joint Arab and Islamic summit in Riyadh.
The choice of China as the initial stop reflects regional countries' recognition of China's influence in mediating Middle Eastern issues. Chinese experts see this as a sign of trust in China's conciliatory role and its impartial stance. The delegation's selection of China underscores the country's active support for the two-state solution and its role in fostering reconciliations in the Middle East.
In conclusion, we earnestly hope for a lasting ceasefire, one that extends beyond the short term. Our prayers remain steadfast for the safety and well-being of the Palestinians. May our collective hope and prayers contribute to the end of this protracted conflict once and for all.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, The Washington Post, Reuters & various cross-references for context.
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