On August 13, 2024, Hamas launched two M90 rockets from Gaza towards Tel Aviv, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. The attack, claimed by Hamas’ armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, was reportedly in response to recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza that resulted in at least 19 Palestinian casualties. According to the Israeli military, the rockets landed in the Mediterranean Sea off Tel Aviv’s coast, causing no damage or casualties.This rocket attack comes at a critical juncture, with ceasefire talks scheduled to begin on August 15 in Qatar. However, Hamas has refused to participate in these negotiations, demanding instead the implementation of a three-phase plan towards a durable ceasefire proposed by US President Joe Biden in May. The situation is further complicated by Iran’s threat to launch a direct attack on Israel if the ceasefire talks fail or if there’s a perception that Israel is deliberately prolonging them.Meanwhile, Israel claims to have killed around 100 Palestinian militia members in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, in recent days. This offensive has exacerbated the already severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where nine out of ten people are displaced and lack access to basic services. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, nearly 40,000 Palestinians have died and over 92,000 have been injured since the start of the war.The international community, including the US, is working to de-escalate tensions. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is planning talks with Qatar, Egypt, and Israel to discuss a ceasefire. However, the situation remains volatile, with both sides showing little sign of backing down. As the region braces for potential further escalation, the humanitarian toll of the conflict continues to mount, with urgent calls for a resolution growing louder.
Key points
- Hamas launched two M90 rockets at Tel Aviv from Gaza, landing in the sea without causing casualties.
- Ceasefire talks are scheduled for August 15 in Qatar, but Hamas has refused to participate.
- Iran has threatened to attack Israel if ceasefire talks fail or are perceived as being prolonged.
- Israel claims to have killed 100 Palestinian militia members in Rafah, worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Contradictions👾While some sources report that Hamas has refused to participate in ceasefire talks, others suggest that Hamas has not ruled out participation if certain conditions are met.
👾There are conflicting reports about Iran’s involvement in the ceasefire talks, with some sources indicating Iran’s willingness to participate and others stating Iran’s denial of any intention to join the talks.
