A ceasefire was announced between Hamas and Israeli forces. In the few days between the announcement and the proposed start, Israel killed at least 103 people and injured over 260 in Palestine. Netanyahu didn’t even wait until the start of the ceasefire to threaten even greater killing and destruction, and has called the halt to the bombing ‘temporary’. The start of the ceasefire was delayed as Netanyahu demanded the names of the first 3 hostages that would be released. During the delay Israeli warplanes attacked the northern Gaza Strip and killed 8 people. Hamas has now released a list of 34 hostages who will be released in a phased approach over 6 weeks. They include Ariel Bibas, age 5, and Kfir Bibas, age 1. The trauma suffered by these children, and the children of Palestine is unimaginable.
I like to look at the Guardian’s photography feature, the week in pictures. This week shows both desperation and hope in Gaza. The ceasefire is welcome, but it is merely a pause, it is fragile, and it is just the start. I fear that the international community will continue to fail the people of Palestine and that we will not see justice in our lifetime. But we must continue to demand accountability and repercussions for the perpetrators of genocide; and peace, justice, safety and self-determination for the people of Palestine. I continue to support Osama and his family and hope they get the chance to rebuild their lives and pursue their dreams.
drlj 