CAIRO: Israeli military strikes killed dozens of Palestinian civilians across the besieged Gaza Strip on Sunday, health officials said, as Egypt hosted an Israeli delegation for a new round of talks in a bid to secure a truce with Gaza’s Hamas rulers.
The warring sides have increased negotiations, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, on a six-week suspension of Israel’s offensive in return for the proposed release of 40 of 130 hostages still held by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas in Gaza. However, significant hurdles remain as both sides stand firm on their respective demands.
While Hamas seek an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, Israel remains resolute in its objective to dismantle the governing and military capabilities of these groups, ruling out any permanent ceasefire agreement.
Notably absent from the talks in Cairo is Hamas, awaiting clarification from mediators on potential new offers from Israel. Meanwhile, the Israeli violence rages on, with Israeli forces continuing their blockade of hospitals and targeting civilian areas.
Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens of Palestinians in Gaza
In the latest strikes, Israeli forces killed Palestinian civilians in Khan Younis, Al-Maghazi camp, and Deir Al-Balah, including an attack on Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital, which also injured journalists. The situation is dire, with Gaza City residents describing widespread destruction and suffering.
Amidst the chaos, Abu Mustafa, a Gaza resident and father of six, expresses the desperation felt by many in the besieged enclave. With the specter of famine looming and the death toll rising, the population of Gaza yearns for an end to the violence and a chance at rebuilding their shattered lives.
As the peace talks continue, Hamas advocate for the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes in Gaza City and surrounding areas. With over 32,000 Palestinians killed since the onset of Israel’s offensive, the international community, represented by the World Court, calls on Israel to ensure basic food supplies to the besieged population.
The World Court on Thursday unanimously ordered Israel, accused by South Africa of genocide in Gaza, to take all necessary and effective action to ensure basic food supplies to the population.
The resumption of negotiations follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent authorization for fresh talks.
According to Al-Qahera News, an Egyptian security source confirmed the restart of discussions aimed at reaching a truce between Israel and Hamas in Cairo. Mediation efforts involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have previously been undertaken, yet a viable agreement has remained elusive.
On Friday, Netanyahu sanctioned a new round of ceasefire negotiations to be held in both Doha and Cairo. While details regarding the Israeli delegation remain undisclosed, reports suggest Netanyahu conferred with Mossad chief David Barnea regarding the talks.
