Quick Read
- Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed dozens, including women and children.
- Hamas is consulting Palestinian factions on a U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan.
- Over 57,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict began 21 months ago.
- Families of Israeli hostages are urging Netanyahu to prioritize their release.
- The U.N. reports escalating humanitarian crises near aid distribution sites.
The Gaza Strip remains a flashpoint of devastation as Israeli airstrikes claimed dozens of lives early Friday. At least 20 Palestinians were killed in Khan Younis, where displaced families sought shelter in tent encampments. This comes as U.S. President Donald Trump awaits Hamas’s response to a proposed 60-day ceasefire that could provide a temporary reprieve from the 21-month-long conflict.
Escalation of Violence
Friday’s airstrikes targeted multiple locations across Gaza, including the Muwasi area and aid distribution points. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 15 people were killed in Khan Younis, including women and children, while another five fatalities were reported in Jabalia. The strikes have left families shattered, with grieving relatives calling for an immediate end to the violence. “The ceasefire will come, and I have lost my brother? There should have been a ceasefire long ago before I lost my brother,” lamented 13-year-old Mayar Al Farr, whose brother was among the casualties.
The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. The U.N. reports that over 613 Palestinians have been killed near aid distribution sites since late May, with hundreds more injured. The Israeli military has acknowledged deploying warning shots near these sites but denies deliberately targeting civilians. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 57,000, with over half of the victims identified as women and children, according to local health officials.
Ceasefire Proposal Under Review
As the violence escalates, diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire are gaining momentum. The U.S.-brokered proposal, supported by Egypt and Qatar, includes a 60-day truce during which both sides would work towards a permanent resolution. Key terms reportedly involve the phased release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, the resumption of unrestricted humanitarian aid, and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza.
Hamas, which has been consulting with other Palestinian factions, is expected to deliver its response to mediators within 24 hours. A Hamas statement emphasized the need for guarantees that Israeli airstrikes would not resume after the ceasefire period ends. “Our final decision will be announced after thorough discussions,” the group stated. President Trump expressed optimism, saying, “We’re closer than ever to a breakthrough, but time is of the essence.”
Mounting Pressure on Israeli Leadership
In Israel, the families of hostages held in Gaza have intensified their calls for a resolution. Demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a deal that would bring their loved ones home. Netanyahu, who is scheduled to visit Washington next week, has pledged to prioritize the release of all hostages but remains adamant that the military campaign will continue until Hamas’s infrastructure is dismantled.
Keith Siegel, a former hostage released during a previous ceasefire, spoke at the rally, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive agreement. “Only a detailed deal can bring peace and ensure no one is left behind,” he said. However, skepticism persists among many Israelis, given the failure of past efforts to achieve lasting peace.
The Humanitarian Toll
As diplomatic efforts unfold, the humanitarian situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and aid distribution remains perilous. The U.N. has called the conditions “unacceptable,” urging immediate action to protect civilians. Despite international outcry, the Israeli military has defended its operations, citing the need to neutralize Hamas’s capabilities.
Palestinians in Gaza continue to grapple with the dual threats of airstrikes and restricted access to essential supplies. “We don’t want food; we want the bloodshed to stop,” said Adlar Mouamar, whose nephew was killed in recent strikes. The international community faces mounting pressure to intervene decisively and prevent further loss of life.
As the world watches, the coming hours will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevail over violence or if Gaza’s suffering will continue unabated.