The situation in Gaza is worsening as Israeli airstrikes continue, and communication with the residents of the strip remains cut off
On the twenty-second day of the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives, Gaza, with a population of around 2.4 million, remains isolated from the world as communications and internet services have been halted. The Israeli army has been conducting destructive airstrikes since October 7th in response to an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel.
Prisoner exchange
In a recent statement, the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, announced their readiness to release the hostages they kidnapped during their attack on Israel earlier this month in exchange for the release of all Palestinian prisoners. Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the brigades, stated, “The price that the enemy must pay for the large number of hostages in our hands is the release of all Palestinian prisoners from the jails.”
Decisive UAE position
Regarding Arab and international positions, the United Arab Emirates called for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza. Any delay in extinguishing this war means more casualties and destruction. The UAE emphasized the urgent need to deliver humanitarian aid to the region safely and without obstacles, while ending the long-standing blockade. They called on Israel to respect its obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and rescind its orders to evacuate over a million people from northern Gaza to the south.
Out of service
Dr. Ayman al-Raqab, a professor of political science at the University of Jerusalem, stated that Gaza has been out of service, with communication being possible only through a limited number of international networks. He pointed out that the occupation insists on continuing this war amidst the casualties of children, women, and the elderly. This brutal war does not discriminate between women and elders because Israel does as it pleases and has received a green light from the United States.
He added that diplomatic efforts must be exerted to the fullest, and all resources should be harnessed to achieve an immediate and sustainable ceasefire. The continued and escalating Israeli airstrikes on Gaza will lead to further disasters.
He also noted that the international community, as observed in the United Nations Security Council, is out of service and no longer has a role or influence in issuing resolutions to prevent the war.
