Israeli forces have killed at least 25 Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip, wounding dozens more, amidst ongoing indirect ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas.
Hamas blames new conditions set by Israel for delaying a ceasefire. The Israeli military targeted a school sheltering displaced families on Wednesday, killing several people.
The attack followed another strike that killed three Palestinians, including a child, and injured several others in the occupied West Bank. Gaza’s Ministry of Health says Israeli forces have besieged hospitals and medical facilities, making them non-operational.
Ceasefire talks are hampered by disagreement between Hamas and Israel over conditions for a deal. Pope Francis has appealed for an end to violence, calling the situation “extremely grave”.
The US and Arab mediators have stepped up efforts to conclude a deal after two weeks of negotiations. However, the situation remains dire in Gaza, with Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities due to Israeli blockade.
At least 45,000 Palestinians have been killed since October last year, according to human rights groups. The Israeli military routinely targets displacement camps and schools, killing mostly women and children.
The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides trading blame for the stalled ceasefire talks.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/25/israeli-forces-kill-at-least-24-in-gaza-as-ceasefire-talks-face-challenges