Israel Accused of Nearly 970 Ceasefire Violations in Gaza Since October

Israel has violated the ceasefire in Gaza nearly 970 times since it came into effect in October, according to regional authorities. Russian news agency TASS reported the information on Sunday (December 28), citing local officials.

Of the 969 alleged ceasefire violations, 455 involved airstrikes and artillery attacks, while 298 incidents included shelling targeting civilians and their homes. The attacks reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 418 people and injuries to more than 1,140 others.

Regional authorities have accused Israel of continuing to obstruct the delivery of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. Gaza officials said residents are facing severe shortages of food, medicine, drinking water, and fuel. The crisis has been further aggravated by cold weather, strong winds, and storms.

A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, brokered by the United States, has been in effect in Gaza since October 11. Since the start of Israel’s military campaign in October 2023, the total number of people killed across the territory has reportedly exceeded 71,000, with more than 171,000 injured. Many people are believed to remain trapped under rubble.

Earlier this year, Israel was accused of violating another ceasefire and launched a separate aid distribution initiative in Gaza beginning May 27. Following this move, famine conditions reportedly worsened in the territory. Israeli forces were also accused of opening fire on Palestinians gathered near food distribution centers, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Many, including children, reportedly died due to starvation.

In November last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice over its actions in the enclave.