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Eigenrac Regional Intelligence Reporting and Analysis

Security Insights – Gaza December 2024

KEY DEVELOPMENTS IN GAZA THIS WEEK

Journalist, civil defense workers killed in Israeli strike: An Israeli airstrike killed photojournalist Ahmed Al-Louh and 5 Civil Defence workers in Nuseirat camp, Gaza. Al-Louh, an Al Jazeera cameraman, was the third journalist killed in Gaza in 24 hours and at least the fourth of the week. While working as a cameraman for Al-Jazeera, Al- Louh was also a platoon commander in Palestinian Islamic Jihad, representing another instance of Palestinian militias placing operatives under cover roles like medical, humanitarian, or journalism to approach Israeli targets.

US pushes ceasefire talks in Gaza: Netanyahu has urged Trump to press Egypt for concessions on a hostage release deal, while Qatar has taken a reduced role in negotiations. Trump has highlighted the importance of securing hostages, while Netanyahu is focusing on addressing civilian presence near military targets. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan continues to pursue a ceasefire agreement tied to the deal.

Risk Categories

Conflict: CRITICAL Crime: High Health and Medical: High Kidnap and Ransom: Medium Personal Safety: High Natural and Environment: Low Political Overview: CRITICAL Terrorism: CRITICAL Unrest: High

Kamal Adwan Hospital attacked, power cut off:Israeli drones dropped at least 10 bombs on Kamal Adwan Hospital, cutting off power and leaving over 50 injured trapped inside, including ICU patients needing oxygen. The hospital director urged international protection after snipers targeted staff. Kamal Adwan Hospital, located within the Jabalia operations zone near Beit Lahia, is surrounded by PIJ rocket teams reportedly operating within 50 meters of hospitals, schools, and aid depots. Israeli strikes in this area, which include targeting Hamas and PIJ operatives, aim to secure the Netzarim corridor from rocket threats.

POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN THE PAST 5 WEEKS

Analysis Snippet

Mediation efforts by the US and Egypt primarily, combined with shifts in regional dynamics, have created a renewed opportunity to finalize a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. Key factors driving this progress include Israel’s military pressure on Hamas, Hezbollah’s ceasefire, and Iran’s regional setbacks, all of which have weakened Hamas’ leverage. The group’s reported “flexibility” on the timeline for troop withdrawal suggests a practical shift under increasing pressure. Additionally, political urgency in the U.S.—with both the Biden administration and incoming Trump administration pushing for progress before the January 20 inauguration—has added momentum to the negotiations. The proposed phased deal, involving a halt in hostilities, a hostage-prisoner exchange, and a boost in humanitarian aid, represents a fragile but critical opportunity to de-escalate the conflict, although challenges remain in navigating final terms and sustaining trust between the parties.

The killing of journalist Ahmed Al-Louh and five Palestinian Civil Defence workers highlights the continued targeting of vital services and media personnel within Gaza, significantly undermining humanitarian efforts and press freedom. Al-Louh’s death, as the third journalist killed within 24 hours, underlines the grave risks continuously faced by journalists attempting to document the conflict. The elimination of Civil Defence workers—essential responders in emergency situations—further cripples Gaza’s already strained capacity to assist civilians amidst strikes. These attacks exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, limit independent reporting, and continue to raise serious concerns about the proportionality and intent of Israeli military operations.

Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza are targeting Palestinian militants using humanitarian, medical, and media covers for operations like reconnaissance or fire correction. The Jabalia region, Gaza City, and Al Maghazi, Nuseirat and Al Mawasi refugee camps remain key operational zones, with strikes primarily focused on the fringes, leaving central areas less likely to be targeted but still impacted by evacuation orders. Netanyahu’s push for the release of hostages is likely linked to increased frequency and intensity in airstrikes, especially in areas near the Netzarim corridor, which he likely deems crucial for Israel’s security. The use of high-profile locations, such as hospitals and media points, by Palestinian groups as shields is also a notable concern, with media coverage being employed to frame Israeli actions as targeting civilians. This ongoing narrative is likely designed to undermine Israeli actions and sway international opinion, adding a layer of complexity to the conflict’s broader propaganda efforts.

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