What’s happening:

The ceasefire in Gaza, designed to facilitate the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, is coming to a close. Israeli forces are expected to resume their military operations, which could intensify the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Why it matters:

Israel’s strategy to uproot Hamas from the Gaza Strip has led to a significant displacement of civilians, with nearly 1.7 million people affected. As operations potentially extend to the southern regions, the humanitarian impact and international response are key concerns.

The big picture:

With Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indication that the military will target southern Gaza, fears of a larger humanitarian disaster are growing. The area is already struggling with winter conditions and flooding, exacerbating the plight of the displaced population.

Al-Mawasi’s “safe area” proposal:

Israel has suggested the establishment of a “safe area” in al-Mawasi for displaced civilians, but aid agencies and UN officials are skeptical about the viability and morality of this plan. The logistical challenges and lack of infrastructure raise doubts about its effectiveness.

International response:

UN agencies and NGOs have rejected Israel’s unilateral establishment of a “safe zone,” stressing the need for agreement among all parties, including Israel, Hamas, and the Palestinian Authority. International patience may wear thin as the conflict resumes after the truce.

Looking ahead:

As Israel prepares for the next phase of its military campaign, the approach to handling the civilian population in Gaza is under scrutiny. The balance between military objectives and humanitarian considerations will be a critical factor in the international community’s reception of Israel’s actions.

This story was first published on bbc.