Israeli airstrikes targeted three homes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals and numerous injuries, as reported by medics on Monday. Hamas-affiliated media outlets claimed the death toll was 15.
In Gaza City, located in the northern part of the strip, Israeli planes struck two residences, causing casualties and injuries, according to health officials.
These airstrikes in Rafah, where over a million people have sought refuge amidst months of Israeli bombardment, occurred just before Egypt was scheduled to host Hamas leaders to discuss potential ceasefire arrangements with Israel.
Israel’s military objective remains the eradication of Hamas, the governing entity in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has led to the deaths of more than 34,000 Palestinians, with 66 fatalities reported in the past 24 hours. Additionally, the war has displaced a significant portion of Gaza’s 2.3 million population, leaving much of the enclave devastated.
Hamas officials recently announced that a delegation led by Khalil Al-Hayya, Hamas’ deputy chief in Gaza, would engage in discussions regarding a ceasefire proposal submitted by Hamas to mediators from Qatar and Egypt, along with Israel’s response. The talks are part of intensified efforts by mediators, including those backed by the United States, to broker a deal amidst Israel’s threats of an invasion of Rafah.
Although specific details of the ceasefire proposals were not disclosed by Hamas officials, a source familiar with the discussions indicated that Hamas is expected to respond to Israel’s latest truce proposal delivered over the weekend. The proposed agreement reportedly includes the release of fewer than 40 hostages in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli jails and outlines a phased truce involving a “period of sustained calm,” which addresses Hamas’ call for a permanent ceasefire.
The upcoming talks in Cairo on Monday will focus on clarifying Hamas’ stance on Israel’s response to their proposal, with the group seeking further details and explanations regarding the terms put forward by Israeli mediators.
