Israeli forces have continued their military operation in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 Palestinians despite a looming deadline for Hamas to agree to a ceasefire proposed by the US.
The casualties reported since early Wednesday include individuals who were killed and injured in an attack on a school being used as a shelter for war refugees. The Al-Falah school in Gaza City’s eastern Zeitoun neighborhood was struck twice within minutes, as confirmed by officials at Al-Ahli Hospital.
Among those affected were first responders. Additionally, five Palestinians lost their lives in a separate strike near a drinking water tank in western Gaza City later that morning.
Further incidents occurred in Gaza City, with reports from Shifa Hospital indicating the loss of lives due to airstrikes. Israeli forces targeted the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, resulting in the deaths of a couple and another individual in different attacks in refugee camps.
The Israeli military reported sirens going off in areas near the Gaza Strip following the crossing of “two projectiles” from Gaza into Israel. A standoff ensued as a flotilla of 50 boats, including activists like Greta Thunberg, attempted to breach Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
In a separate development, a proposal for peace negotiations involving Hamas, Israel, and other Palestinian factions was put forward, with Egypt’s Foreign Minister and Qatar expressing the need for further discussions on certain aspects. The plan outlines conditions for Hamas to release hostages, relinquish power in Gaza, and disarm in exchange for various concessions, including humanitarian aid and international oversight of Gaza’s governance.
Simultaneously, a flotilla carrying activists and aid for Gaza tried to break through the Israeli blockade, resulting in confrontations with Israeli naval forces. Several vessels were intercepted, leading to the arrest of individuals from multiple nationalities, including a British journalist representing Novara Media.
The situation remains tense, with ongoing naval interceptions and disruptions to communication with the flotilla vessels. The conflict in Gaza has claimed the lives of over 66,000 Palestinians since its escalation following past hostilities with Israel in 2023.