A reported Israeli airstrike on the Owayda family building in eastern Rafah on Wednesday left several residents dead, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the impending truce between Israel and Hamas scheduled for the following day.
Eyewitnesses in Rafah confirmed the airstrike, prompting skepticism among residents regarding the viability of the proposed ceasefire.
Mohammed Abu Halaleh expressed his disbelief, stating, “What truce are you talking about with these massacres taking place? Is this called a truce? These are massacres. Before the truce and after it (Israel) commits genocides.”
The agreed-upon ceasefire, set to last at least four days, aims to facilitate the delivery of aid and the release of 50 hostages held by militants.
In exchange, Hamas is demanding the release of 150 Palestinian women and children detainees in Israel, along with the allowance of humanitarian, medical, and fuel aid into Gaza.
Gaza’s health ministry reported that at least 13,300 Palestinians, including at least 5,600 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks so far.
The ongoing airstrikes have heightened tensions, raising concerns about the prospects for a lasting truce in the region.
