Gaza War: Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire Efforts
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, rooted in the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, continues to evolve with ongoing military operations, ceasefire negotiations, and humanitarian concerns. This article provides an overview of the current situation as of February 17, 2026, drawing on the latest available information.
Origins of the Current Conflict
The current war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel. This attack resulted in the deaths of 1,195 Israelis and foreign nationals [1]. The conflict is part of the larger Gaza–Israel conflict and the wider Middle Eastern crisis.
Current Status and Territorial Control
As of October 10, 2025, approximately 53% of the Gaza Strip was under Israeli military control [1]. A ceasefire was formally in effect since October 10, 2025, as part of the first phase of a peace deal [1]. Although, recent reports indicate ongoing violations and continued military activity.
Recent Developments (February 2026)
Recent weeks have seen continued Israeli military actions in Gaza. On February 3, 2026, Israel reopened the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, but only a limited number of Palestinian patients were able to access medical treatment in Egypt [2].
Israeli strikes have resulted in casualties, with eleven Palestinians reported killed in strikes on February 16, 2026, according to rescuers [2]. Earlier in February, Israeli strikes killed 20 people in Gaza, including those in a tent camp, according to hospital reports [2].
On February 5, 2026, an Israeli military reservist was charged with smuggling cigarettes into Gaza in exchange for $117,000 [2]. Israel has banned Doctors Without Borders (MSF) from operating in Gaza due to their refusal to provide a staff list, citing concerns for staff safety [2].
Belligerents and Commanders
The primary belligerents include Hamas and Israel. Hamas commanders include Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, Saleh al-Arouri, Mohammed Deif, Mohammed Sinwar, and Izz al-Din al-Haddad [1]. On the Israeli side, key figures include Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel Katz, and Benny Gantz [1]. Yoav Gallant served as a commander until November 2024 [1].
Casualties and Humanitarian Impact
As of October 10, 2025, over 80,647 Palestinians have been reported killed in the Gaza Strip, including both civilians and militants [1]. More than 171,666 have been wounded, and over 12,000 have been detained [1]. Israeli casualties include 1,609 military personnel [1].
International Involvement
Indonesia is preparing to deploy up to 8,000 soldiers to Gaza as part of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the US [2]. The US has also proposed a new “Board of Peace” led by Donald Trump, aiming to resolve the conflict, though its effectiveness remains uncertain [2].
Looking Ahead
The situation in Gaza remains highly volatile. Whereas the ceasefire provides a temporary respite, ongoing violations and the complex political landscape suggest that a lasting resolution will be challenging to achieve. Continued international efforts and a commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict are crucial for securing a sustainable peace.