Israel has stepped up airstrikes on Rafah in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of more than a dozen members of a single family, according to residents. The health ministry of the devastated Palestinian enclave has reported a total of 29,313 deaths since the beginning of the conflict.
In Jerusalem, Benny Gantz, a member of the Israeli war cabinet, mentioned “encouraging initial indications of progress” regarding negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. These talks involve the United States, Egypt, and Qatar in an effort to broker a temporary halt to the hostilities.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed increased operations in Khan Younis, situated just north of Rafah, but did not acknowledge any strikes on Rafah itself in its daily report on Gaza events. Requests for further comment from the IDF remained unanswered.
Rafah, home to approximately 1.5 million people, is located on the southern border of Gaza, with many residents having fled north to escape the Israeli military campaign. The flow of aid from Egypt into Gaza has significantly decreased over the past fortnight, and security challenges have hindered the distribution of available food, according to United Nations data and officials.
Despite mounting international opposition, including from key ally the United States, Israel has indicated preparations for a potential ground offensive in Rafah, citing concerns for civilian safety.
