Israeli forces continued their deadly attacks in the Gaza Strip on Monday, despite the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire. He said, “Yet even though Ramadan has begun, the killing, bombing and bloodshed continue in Gaza.” He also said, “it is time for peace,” calling on political, religious and community leaders to “do everything in their power to make this holy period a time for empathy, action, and peace.”
Palestinian media say dozens of civilians were killed by Israeli attacks on Monday when Palestinians began fasting in daytime hours.
A video filmed by a Reuters camera crew in Rafah, southern Gaza, shows a man who has fled northern Gaza. He said that he has never spent Ramadan in despair, but now he has no food to eat after daylight fasting and no money to buy any food.
There has been little progress in negotiations for a ceasefire and a hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas.
Lebanese media reported on Monday that a senior Hamas member complained about Qatar, Egypt and the United States, which are mediating the talks.
The Hamas member reportedly said that those mediators are not on the side of Hamas, but are showing understanding for Israel’s demands. Hamas is calling for a permanent ceasefire.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News on Monday that Israel has destroyed three quarters of Hamas’ fighting battalions. He added that Israel is “very close to victory.”
SOURCE: NKH, Tuesday, March 12, 2024
