In a day marked by heightened tensions, Israeli military strikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals, including four children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The strikes come as negotiators work to uphold a fragile ceasefire, with the first phase having expired this month. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted two Hamas operatives, who they identified as posing a threat to IDF troops while collecting drone-operating equipment.
The IDF's actions followed their release of names of six individuals purportedly belonging to Hamas, whom they alleged were targeted in these recent operations. However, Hamas has denied Israel's allegations, arguing that the names released were inaccurate. Despite the ongoing violence, Hamas has publicly expressed readiness to engage in the next round of talks.
As part of these diplomatic efforts, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has dispatched negotiators to Egypt. They are scheduled to meet with senior Egyptian officials in a bid to sustain the ceasefire and further discussions. The second phase of the ceasefire aims to secure the release of male hostages held in Gaza. Notably, Hamas has agreed to free Edan Alexander, the last living U.S. citizen detained in Gaza.
Amid these developments, the Gaza Health Ministry reported that 51 individuals were hospitalized with injuries from the strikes. Additionally, the bodies of 15 people who had previously died were recovered, adding to the tragic toll of the conflict.