Gaza City, Palestine – Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza, despite ceasefire talks inching closer to an agreement.
Hamas said talks aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange were “serious and positive” on Tuesday. The group’s negotiations with Israel appeared to be progressing, but the situation remains dire for civilians.
Eyewitnesses reported that fighter jets bombed a residential building in Gaza City, killing 10 people. Another air strike hit a house in Beit Lahiya, killing at least 15 people. Israeli tanks also pushed towards the western area of al-Mawasi, forcing dozens to flee.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warned of “appalling” conditions in one of northern Gaza’s only functioning hospitals. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for a ceasefire and protection of healthcare workers.
Ceasefire talks continue despite the ongoing violence. Hamas says that if Israel ceases to impose new conditions, an agreement can be reached. However, disagreements over demands for Israel’s future military presence in Gaza remain a significant obstacle.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/17/israel-attacks-gaza-city-amid-attempts-to-reach-ceasefire-deal