Israeli air strikes on Gaza City have killed at least 11 people, according to Palestinian medical officials, as diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in the enclave remain deadlocked. The strikes, which targeted two residential buildings in the Shejaiya and Daraj neighbourhoods, brought the total Palestinian death toll since the resumption of hostilities to 414, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The Israeli military said the strikes were aimed at militant infrastructure, but did not provide immediate details. Witnesses reported that one of the buildings housed a family of eight, including four children. The second strike hit a multi-story apartment block, with rescue workers still sifting through rubble for survivors.
The escalation follows the collapse of indirect talks between Israel and Hamas mediated by Egypt and Qatar. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that military operations will continue until the complete demilitarisation of Gaza is achieved. Hamas leaders have countered that any ceasefire must include an end to the blockade and a withdrawal of Israeli forces.
International pressure is mounting. The United Nations Security Council is expected to meet this week to discuss a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke by phone with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday, urging restraint. However, White House officials have refrained from publicly criticising Israel's operations.
The stalling of ceasefire efforts has drawn condemnation from humanitarian organisations. Doctors Without Borders reported that medical supplies in Gaza are critically low, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties. The World Food Programme warned that food rations for 1.1 million people would be suspended from next week unless aid corridors are reopened.
Regional analysts suggest that the breakdown in talks reflects a fundamental mismatch in objectives. Israel seeks to degrade Hamas's military capabilities, while Hamas demands a comprehensive settlement that addresses the root causes of the conflict. With neither side willing to compromise, the prospect of a prolonged campaign appears likely.
The human toll continues to rise. The Gaza health ministry reports that 1,873 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict resumed in March, with 4,660 wounded. The number of displaced persons stands at over 200,000, many of whom are sheltering in UN-run schools. The situation remains precarious, with no clear end in sight.
