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Hamas Violates Ceasefire Agreement, Resulting in Death of 40 Palestinians

  • Carrie Dedrick Religious persecution, missions, Christianity around the world
  • Updated Aug 01, 2014

Another planned ceasefire between Israel and Gaza ended when Hamas militants violated the agreement with an attack of Israeli soldiers. One member of the Israeli defense forces was reportedly taken hostage in the attack, which White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest called “a rather barbaric violation of the ceasefire agreement.”

In response, Israel fired at Gaza, killing at least 40 people and injuring about 150. ABC News reports that homes were hit in Rafah, overwhelming the small hospital in the area with an influx of patients. 

In response to the incident, United Nations special coordinator Robert Serry released a statement saying, “Mr. Serry urges the Palestinian parties to last night's understanding to urgently reaffirm their commitment to the humanitarian cease-fire. He is deeply concerned regarding the serious consequences on the ground that could arise as a result of this incident. He will continue his efforts to contain the violence and the risk of renewed escalation."

The conflict between Israel and Gaza has now continued for almost one month. The total death toll is over 1,400 people, many of whom were Palestinian civilians, including children. 

Publication date: August 1, 2014