Gaza, Mar 12 (UNI) Israeli forces have killed at least 137 Palestinians since the ceasefire agreement with Hamas took effect in Gaza, Salama Maarouf, head of the Hamas-run government media office, said on Tuesday.

Maarouf said in a press statement that "in the past ten days, Israeli forces have intensified their violations of the ceasefire, including today's killing of five people south of Gaza City."

Among them were two brothers targeted by drones, bringing the total number of Palestinians killed since the peace agreement took effect on January 19 to 137, including about 52 in the city of Rafah, according to the official.

Maarouf accused Israel of escalating pressure on the Palestinian population through a combination of military action and economic blockade.

"Israel is tightening the siege and denying people access to basic necessities while continuing to kill civilians in cold blood," he said.

"The victims include women and children who posed no threat to Israeli forces. Most were killed while inspecting their homes near occupation positions," he added.

Maarouf called on international mediators to intervene and hold Israel accountable for its actions.

The Gaza ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, began on January 19 after 15 months of devastating war in Gaza.

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