Fighting resumes: end of ceasefire in the Gaza Strip
5:29 AM EST, December 1, 2023
The Israeli army has accused Hamas of breaching the ceasefire and subsequently resumed military operations in the Gaza Strip. Explosions are reportedly audible in the area.
Negotiations to extend the ceasefire between the Palestinian Hamas and Israel took place overnight. Initially, reports suggested a 24-hour extension was probable.
Telegram channels affiliated with Hamas started reporting about explosions and bombings in the north of the Gaza Strip. Concurrently, alarm sirens were activated in southern Israel.
Israel Confirms: "Operations Have Resumed"
The Israeli army released a statement, accusing Hamas of violating the decreed "operational pause" and subsequently proceeded to respond.
"The IDF has resumed operations against the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the statement reads.
The Purpose of the Ceasefire?
The ceasefire, previously extended, aimed to, among other goals, liberate Hamas hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
The ceasefire between Hamas and Israel commenced last Friday.