In brief
At least eight people were killed when Israeli aircraft struck residential buildings in Gaza City, Khan Younis and Deir al‑Balah. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) defended the raids as targeting Hamas militants, claiming the death of two commanders. The attacks come after Hamas accepted a negotiated plan for the complete disarmament of its forces, part of a broader U.S.-backed ceasefire and reconstruction initiative. While Israeli leadership is split on the deal – some welcoming it, others deeming it unacceptable – Gaza continues to endure widespread devastation and humanitarian suffering.
Eight people were killed in overnight Israeli strikes that hit residential buildings in Gaza City, Khan Younis and Deir al‑Balah, Palestinian authorities said.
Israeli warplanes struck the three cities after a ceasefire had been brokered by the United States. The Israel Defense Forces said it was targeting military operatives, reporting the death of two Hamas cadres.
These attacks come days after Hamas accepted a plan for the “complete disarmament” of its forces – a key step in a U.S.-mediated ceasefire that would see Gaza placed under the control of a Board of Peace.
Feelings remain divided in Israel. While the Energy Minister called the ceasefire “very happy” and demanded full control over Gaza, the National Security Minister called the deal “not acceptable.”
Since the conflict began in October, Gaza has endured over 1,500 targeted strikes, destroying a vast swath of infrastructure and leaving an estimated 60 million tonnes of debris behind.
Humanitarian losses continue to mount, with families suffering in the aftermath of each raid.
