WATCH LIVE: State Department holds news briefing amid Israel-Palestinian fighting
PBS NewsHourDec 24, 2022
The Facts
Israel and the Gaza-based Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militant group on Saturday confirmed they agreed to an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire, which went into effect at 10 p.m. after nearly five days of deadly fighting.
Shortly before its start, a last-minute barrage of PIJ rocket fire and Israeli air strikes began, extending past the announced deadline, though the truce, so far, remains in place.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
Israel has expressed its strong commitment to observe the truce as long as the militants also comply with this deal while praising Egypt for its efforts to broker the ceasefire. While the country has made it clear that it will not violate the agreement, Israel will not fall short of doing everything it needs to do to protect itself if it is threatened or attacked.
Pro-Palestine narrative
While this ceasefire has been joyfully welcomed by Palestinians, the status quo in Gaza remains unbearable due to Israel's yearslong siege and occupation. It's evident that a lasting solution to halt hostilities will only be found when the apartheid, border closures, and impunity for Israeli wrongdoing finally come to an end.