NEW YORK, Sketsa.id – The United Nations has expressed profound concern following reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered military strikes in the Gaza Strip, despite an active ceasefire agreement. The reported attacks are said to have resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties.

“I have just seen the press reports. I can tell you that these reports are deeply concerning,” stated UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric during a press briefing in New York.

Dujarric emphasized the UN’s commitment to ensuring the continuation of the truce. “It is crucial that all parties involved in the ceasefire adhere to the agreement. We cannot have civilians being bombed again. We do not want our humanitarian operations to be hindered again,” he asserted.

Background of the Ceasefire Agreement

The UN’s statement comes in response to reports citing the Israeli prime minister’s office, which claimed that Netanyahu instructed the military to launch significant strikes in Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating the truce.

The ceasefire had been in effect in the enclave since October 10, following a 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump. The initial phase of the deal included the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.

The peace plan also encompassed a program for Gaza’s reconstruction and the establishment of a new governing mechanism without Hamas. However, the recent developments threaten to derail the ongoing peace process.

The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 68,000 Palestinians, a majority of whom are women and children, and has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins. The UN continues to urge all parties to prioritize diplomatic channels and protect civilians caught in the conflict. (*)