Israeli airstrikes across Gaza have killed at least 69 Palestinians, as the country’s military has ramped up its operations. These attacks come at a time when Hamas is reportedly reviewing a ceasefire offer mediated by the United States.
Strike Hits School Shelter, Dozens Dead
According to Gaza’s Hamas-run Civil Defence agency, an Israeli airstrike hit a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City. This attack killed 15 people, mostly women and children, who had sought refuge there. The shelter was located in the al-Rimal neighborhood.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed it targeted the school, saying it was trying to eliminate a “key” Hamas member hiding inside.
More Deaths Reported During Aid Distribution
Meanwhile, 38 more people reportedly died while waiting for aid or heading to get it. However, the Israeli military denied responsibility. It dismissed these reports as false, calling them “lies.”
IDF Claims It Hit 150 Targets
On Thursday, the Israeli military said its aircraft had struck around 150 locations across Gaza within 24 hours. These included tunnel sites, fighters, and weapons caches, according to the IDF.
Trump Pushes for Ceasefire and Safety in Gaza
US President Donald Trump announced that Israel has agreed to a ceasefire plan. He urged Hamas to accept it as well. Trump also said he hopes for peace and security for Palestinians living in Gaza.
“I want the people of Gaza to be safe more importantly,” Trump said when asked if he still planned for the US to take control of the territory, as he suggested in February.
“I want to see safety for the people of Gaza. They’ve gone through hell.”
Trump is expected to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week in Washington to push forward the ceasefire talks.
Netanyahu Reaffirms Hostage Rescue Promise
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, meanwhile, promised to bring back all hostages still held in Gaza. He spoke to residents of Nir Oz, a kibbutz where many were kidnapped during the October 2023 Hamas attacks.
“I feel a deep commitment, first and foremost, to ensure the return of all our abductees, all of them,” Netanyahu told the community.
“We will bring them all back,” he added in a video released by his office.
Netanyahu is also set to meet with Trump in Washington next week, where the focus will be on pushing Hamas to accept the ceasefire deal.