War banquet in Bethlehem: Christmas celebrations under terror!

War banquet in Bethlehem: Christmas celebrations under terror!

Amid ongoing tensions and pressing human rights issues, on December 24, 2024, Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog recalled the approximately 100 hostages held in Gaza for more than 444 days, without access to basic humanitarian assistance or medical care, such as kleinezeitung.at reported. At the same time, Israeli forces intercepted a missile fired at Israel from Yemen. Injuries occurred when people sought shelter in a panic; at least 20 required treatment after falling or suffering anxiety attacks. Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, the Houthi militias, allied with Hamas, have attacked Israel on several occasions, with the announcement that they will continue the attacks as long as military operations in Gaza continue.

Conflict progress and international mediation

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his determination to completely eliminate Hamas and will not move to end the conflict until this is achieved. The war was triggered by the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, which left over 1,200 dead. As a result of the fighting, more than 45,200 people died in the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian figures, although the figures do not distinguish between fighters and civilians. The US, Egypt and Qatar are intensively mediating between Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire, but progress remains elusive as Israel insists on a list of hostages that must be provided by Hamas Wikipedia reported.

The Israeli armed forces have also confirmed the killing of Hamas foreign chief Ismail Haniya in July 2024 in Tehran. Defense Minister Katz announced that the Israel IDF will continue to crack down on the Houthi militia and its infrastructure. This dynamic conflict highlights the broader geopolitical tensions that unfortunately exist in the region and continue to threaten many lives.