Recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza have resulted in the deaths of at least 36 people, as negotiations for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas continue. According to reports, Nasser Hospital received 33 bodies from three separate strikes near Khan Younis, while another hospital reported three additional fatalities.
The strikes have claimed the lives of around 11 members of a single family, with at least 17 others injured. The Israeli military acknowledged receiving these reports but had no immediate response. These latest attacks follow a discussion on Wednesday between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding efforts to broker a cease-fire and a deal for the return of hostages.
Airstrikes in Gaza kill 36, including multiple family members, as cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas stall
The conversation, which also included Vice President Harris, comes despite frustration from the Biden administration over Netanyahu’s perceived backtracking on promises to reduce military operations along the Gaza-Egypt border.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken had met with Netanyahu for three hours on Monday and reported that an agreement was reached on a U.S.-led proposal aimed at bridging gaps between Israel and Hamas. However, Hamas later dismissed this deal, accusing Blinken of making “misleading claims.”
Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel, over 40,000 Palestinians have been reported dead due to Israel’s counteroffensive, according to local health sources. More than 100 hostages are still held by Hamas, and the Israeli government insists their return is crucial for any cease-fire agreement.
The collapse of the cease-fire talks raises concerns about a potential escalation of the conflict, though the White House emphasized on Friday that the negotiation process is progressing.
