Post by : Saif Rahman

Israel has initiated what officials describe as a “extensive operation” within Gaza to search for the final hostage taken during the October 7, 2023 attack, as diplomatic pressures mount to progress in the delicate ceasefire negotiations. This operation arrives at a pivotal moment, with international negotiators, notably from the U.S., encouraging both Israel and Hamas to take immediate steps towards alleviating restrictions and fostering regional stability.

The hostage, Ran Gvili, lost his life during the Hamas-led assault over two years ago, with his remains held in Gaza ever since. His repatriation has transformed into a significant political issue in Israel, eliciting strong emotional responses from the public. Many view the retrieval of his remains as the last obstacle before Israel can agree to open the Rafah border crossing to Egypt and facilitate the next phase of the ceasefire.

In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office indicated that post-operation and in accordance with agreements achieved with the U.S., Israel intends to permit access at the Rafah crossing. While no specific schedule was offered, military officials suggested that the search may extend over several days. On Sunday, the Israeli Cabinet convened to deliberate the border crossing and wider ceasefire strategies, following discussions between senior U.S. officials and Netanyahu.

Unusually, Israel's military has disclosed more details about the ongoing search efforts. Reports indicate that troops are currently examining a cemetery in northern Gaza, positioned near the Yellow Line governing Israeli-controlled territories. Another military source revealed indications that Gvili might be interred in the Shijaiya-Tuffah vicinity, close to Gaza City. Specialized units, including rabbis and forensic experts, are engaged to assist in identifying any remains discovered. The official provided their information anonymously due to the operation's active status.

Gvili’s family has strongly urged the government to delay the second ceasefire phase until his remains are secured. Their appeal resonates with many Israelis who believe that the return of all hostages, alive or deceased, should take precedence over further concessions. Under the first ceasefire phase, initiated in October, Israel committed to the full recovery of remaining hostages, with the last successful mission occurring in early December.

Simultaneously, external pressures are amplifying. The Trump administration has recently asserted that the second ceasefire phase is already in motion. In turn, Hamas alleges that Israel is obstructing the process, claiming to have provided all available information regarding Gvili’s remains and accusing Israel of hindering searches in occupied military zones. Israel has countered by suggesting that Hamas is slowing progress and not fully cooperating.

Tensions are escalating on a different front as well. An overnight fire erupted at the sealed headquarters of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, often referred to as UNRWA, in east Jerusalem. The specifics of how the fire began remain unclear. U.N. officials reported sightings of Israeli settlers entering the premises and removing furniture, with parts of the surrounding fence reportedly cut. Israel’s fire services were deployed to manage the blaze's threat of spreading further.

UNRWA’s leadership has condemned this event, characterizing it as another strike against the agency amidst intensifying scrutiny on its operations. Israel has historically accused UNRWA of affiliations with Hamas, alleging some of its staff may have participated in the 2023 assault. The agency has vehemently denied such claims, stating it has taken action against implicated employees. Legislation restricting UNRWA’s operations in areas regarded as part of Israel, including east Jerusalem, was enacted last year.

As the search operation unfolds in Gaza, the situation remains tense and precarious. The results of this endeavor could significantly influence the subsequent phases of the ceasefire, the opening of Gaza’s borders, and the broader movement away from the devastation of war. Currently, all eyes are on recovering the last hostage to determine whether this painful chapter can be concluded.

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