In a recent development, a group of UN-backed human rights experts has accused Israel of committing “genocidal acts” and sexual violence against Palestinians in Gaza. The report highlights the systematic destruction of reproductive health facilities and alleges rape and sexual violence by Israeli security forces against Palestinian detainees. However, it stops short of accusing Israel of genocide.

The United States has proposed extending the current Gaza ceasefire by several weeks in exchange for additional hostage releases by Hamas and the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza. White House envoy Steve Witkoff delivered the proposal during meetings in Doha with Qatari and Egyptian mediators, as well as Israeli negotiators. The aim is to extend the ceasefire to include the holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover, potentially preventing the resumption of conflict. Israel has responded positively to the proposal, indicating a willingness to consider the extended ceasefire and humanitarian aid resumption.

The death toll in Gaza has risen to 48,524, with 111,955 injured, according to the enclave’s Health Ministry. An additional 10,000 individuals are missing under the rubble and presumed dead.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the UN investigation’s findings as “false and absurd,” rejecting the accusations of genocidal acts in Gaza.

These developments occur amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations, with international efforts focused on extending the truce and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.