Intensified violence in Gaza has killed at least 60 people just as Gaza ceasefire talks are set to resume in Washington. The surge in deadly Israeli strikes comes a day after U.S. President Donald Trump called for a deal to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages.
Heavy Bombardment Hits Civilians
Israeli airstrikes and shelling pounded northern Gaza, targeting areas like Zeitoun and southwestern Gaza City. Residents reported relentless explosions, with schools, homes, and shelters under fire. In Zeitoun alone, 10 people died, while 22 more, including women, children, and a journalist, were killed in a strike on a beachfront café.
Displaced resident Amani Swalha stood in the rubble of a school and pleaded, “We are not just numbers… It is our right to live with dignity.”
Read: Israeli Strike Kills Nearly 40 in Gaza’s Deadliest Attack Yet
Military Operations Continue
Israeli tanks advanced into eastern Gaza City while aircraft bombed four schools. The military claimed
the strikes targeted militant command centers, saying efforts were made to reduce civilian harm. However, widespread destruction and mass evacuations continue. Over 80% of Gaza is now either militarized or under evacuation orders.
Washington Pushes for Ceasefire
Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is expected to meet U.S. officials in Washington to discuss the latest ceasefire proposal. Talks will also address Iran and a potential White House visit by Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The U.S. has proposed a 60-day truce, during which Hamas would release half of the hostages. In return, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners and the remains of those killed. A full end to the war would follow the second phase of hostage releases.
Standoff Over War’s End
Hamas insists on a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel demands the dismantling of Hamas before ending the war. Despite growing international pressure, both sides remain firm.
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, during her visit to Jerusalem, called the humanitarian situation “unbearable,” urging for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access.
The war, triggered by the October 7 Hamas attack, has since claimed over 56,000 Palestinian lives and displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million people.
Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,, X and TikTok for latest updates
