Israel holds ceasefire talks with Hamas, as new ground operation in Gaza begins

Published: Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 12:13 pm

Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza Amid Ceasefire Talks

TEL AVIV, Israel - As ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas commence, Israel has launched a new ground offensive in Gaza, intensifying the already devastating conflict. The offensive follows a week of intense Israeli airstrikes, which Gaza health officials report have killed approximately 500 Palestinians, including many women and children.

The talks, taking place in Qatar, aim to negotiate a potential ceasefire in the 19-month war. The U.S. is actively involved, with the primary goal of freeing Israeli hostages. While Hamas has announced talks are ongoing without preconditions, Israel's Prime Minister's office has stated they are willing to negotiate a permanent end to the war, but only if Hamas militants are exiled and Gaza is disarmed.

Negotiations are reportedly focused on a two-month ceasefire, contingent on the release of approximately ten living hostages on the first day. This diplomatic push comes after an extraordinary week, including Hamas releasing the last living U.S. citizen held hostage.

Simultaneously, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. Palestinians are fleeing intense bombardment in northern Gaza, with many reporting this as the most severe period of strikes since the war's beginning. Families are evacuating with limited resources, and a key hospital has been rendered inoperable.

Amidst international pressure, Israel is planning to renew food aid to Gaza, with a U.S.-backed initiative set to begin distribution on May 24. However, the United Nations and its partner aid groups have refused to participate, citing concerns that the plan is an Israeli attempt to weaponize aid. Under the proposed plan, Gaza's population would be forced to move south into a new zone cordoned off by the Israeli military.

BNN's Perspective: The situation in Gaza is a tragedy, with both sides bearing responsibility for the ongoing suffering. While ceasefire talks are a positive development, the preconditions set by Israel, particularly regarding the disarmament of Hamas, present a significant hurdle. The humanitarian crisis demands immediate attention, and any aid distribution must be conducted in a way that is truly impartial and ensures the safety and dignity of all civilians.

Keywords: Israel, Gaza, Hamas, ceasefire, ground offensive, airstrikes, hostages, humanitarian crisis, food aid, Palestinians, conflict, war, Qatar, United States, aid distribution, Israeli military, Gaza City, Jabalia, Indonesian Hospital.

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