Israel intensified its bombardment of Rafah in Gaza’s south, resulting in over a dozen members of one family killed in an airstrike, as reported by residents. The Palestinian enclave’s health ministry declared 29,313 deaths in the ongoing war.
In Jerusalem, Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz mentioned “promising early signs of progress” regarding negotiations for a new deal to release hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza. These discussions, facilitated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, aim to secure a pause in the conflict.
The Israeli army (IDF) said it had escalated operations in Khan Younis, north of Rafah. However, it did not acknowledge attacks on Rafah itself in its daily summary of events in Gaza and did not immediately respond to inquiries.
About 1.5 million people are estimated to be crowded into Rafah, near the border with Egypt, most having fled their homes further north to escape the military action by Israel.
The flow of aid from Egypt into Gaza has significantly reduced in the past two weeks, and security issues have hampered the distribution of available food, according to U.N. reports and officials.
Despite growing international opposition, including from the United States, Israel has indicated readiness for a ground assault on Rafah.
Residents of Rafah reported multiple Israeli airstrikes and naval bombardments along the coastline. Additionally, Israeli tanks reportedly advanced into Al-Mawasi, a previously relatively safe area, cutting off access to Khan Younis and Rafah before withdrawing.
Gaza’s health ministry reported 69,333 injuries since the conflict’s start on October 7, alongside the 29,313 deaths, with 118 fatalities recorded in the last 24 hours.
The conflict began when Hamas militants breached the southern border into Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties and hostage-taking.
Efforts to negotiate a new hostage release deal continue, with Gantz expressing optimism about progress. However, he warned that military operations would persist if no agreement is reached, even during Ramadan.
Despite previous exchanges, negotiations for a ceasefire have stalled, with Israel rejecting Hamas’ demands for cessation and withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for more hostage releases.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated, with reports of attacks on aid convoys and escalating needs for essential supplies.
Anger towards the United States has grown among residents, particularly following its recent veto of a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.
In Rafah, mourning families criticized the U.S. for its support of Israel, attributing the ongoing violence to American backing.
Overnight strikes were reported in other areas of Gaza, resulting in further casualties and funerals being held. The Israeli military confirmed the killing of 29 militants in targeted operations in Khan Younis and the destruction of a significant Hamas tunnel.
(Inputs from Reuters)