Gaza, West Bank See Fresh Violence Despite Fragile Ceasefire

Violence continued across Gaza and the West Bank on Sunday, underscoring the fragility of the ceasefire and the widening security challenges facing Palestinians, journalists and foreign activists.

In Gaza, an Israeli airstrike in western Deir al-Balah killed at least two Palestinians, including a three-year-old boy, according to hospital authorities. Another Palestinian was wounded. The Israeli military said the strike killed Hussam Nusair, whom it described as a Hamas operative who had posed an “immediate threat”. It did not provide evidence for the claim. Gaza health authorities say Israeli fire has killed at least 1,318 Palestinians since the fragile October ceasefire that sought to end more than two years of war. The figures do not distinguish between civilians and militants.

The West Bank saw separate incidents involving Israeli settlers. NBC News said its crew was attacked while interviewing a Palestinian woman who said settlers had driven her from her home. Correspondent Matt Bradley, two other crew members and the woman were treated for injuries. Video released by NBC showed masked men approaching with sticks and striking the crew’s vehicles. The Israeli military said it was aware of reports of Palestinian injuries but did not comment on the assault on the journalists.

In another incident, settlers reportedly seized British activist Finn Joughin, locked him in a shed and handed him to Israeli police. His lawyer, Inbar Shaked Vardi, denied allegations that Joughin assaulted a child, saying footage showed him attempting to protect a Palestinian village. British officials said embassy representatives had raised the case with Israeli authorities.

The developments come amid increased settler violence in the West Bank. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a rare condemnation, saying such actions harm Israel’s interests and its international standing.