Trump Defends Gaza Ceasefire Despite Ongoing Israeli Violations
Washington – Pal Plus
US President Donald Trump claimed in a recent interview that the ceasefire in Gaza is “not fragile,” despite repeated violations by Israeli forces since the agreement took effect on October 10.
In his first sit-down interview with CBS 60 Minutes in five years, Trump described the US-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire as “very solid,” adding that Hamas could be neutralized immediately if they fail to comply.
Israeli Attacks Continue Despite Ceasefire
According to Gaza’s Government Media Office and the Palestinian Health Ministry, over 230 Palestinians have been killed, including 97 children, and 600 injured in Israeli attacks since October 10.
Israeli forces reportedly carried out 52 shootings and 55 shellings across Gaza by October 28. At least 11 civilian homes were demolished, while troops continued using remotely controlled explosive devices and heavy machinery to destroy structures.
Raids and Abductions Escalate
Israeli forces conducted multiple incursions beyond the so-called Yellow Line, a non-physical demarcation separating Israeli occupation forces from parts of Gaza, while maintaining control over approximately 50% of the enclave.
At least nine incursions were reported by October 28, resulting in the abduction of 21 Palestinians, including individuals taken from homes near the Yellow Line and from the sea while fishing.
Humanitarian Aid Flow Remains Severely Restricted
The ceasefire agreement stipulated the reopening of the Rafah crossing for people movement and entry of 600 humanitarian aid trucks daily, including 50 carrying fuel.
Between October 10 and 31, only 3,203 trucks entered Gaza, averaging 145 trucks per day, or just 24% of the required aid.
Israel has kept the Rafah crossing largely closed, preventing critically wounded and sick Palestinians from accessing treatment abroad. The entry of heavy machinery, tents, and shelters has also been blocked, leaving many areas without essential services.
Aid organizations and UN agencies warn that despite overwhelming humanitarian needs, only a small fraction of essential supplies are reaching Gaza, highlighting the ongoing crisis despite the ceasefire.
