The Israeli military launched a campaign to destroy Hamas in response to the group’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which around 1,200 people were killed and another 251 taken hostage.
More than 46,700 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the region’s Hamas-run health ministry. Most of the 2.3 million population has also been displaced, there is widespread destruction, and there is a severe shortage of food, fuel, medicine and shelter due to a struggle to get help to those in need.
Israel says 94 of the hostages are still being held by Hamas, of whom 34 are presumed dead. In addition, there were four Israelis who were kidnapped before the war, two of whom died.
Relatives of the remaining hostages are urging the Israeli government to do whatever it takes to get a deal and bring everyone home.
“We can’t miss this moment. This is the last moment; we can save them,” said Hadas Kalderon, wife of Ofer Kalderon, 54 years old.
The Palestinians also dare to hope that the terrible 15-month war is at an end.
“We are waiting for a ceasefire and a ceasefire. May God complete it for us in goodness, bless us with peace, and let us return to our homes,” said Amal Saleh, 54, told Reuters news agency.
“Even though the school was bombed, destroyed, and destroyed, we just want to know that we are finally living in peace.”
