Gaza: More than 50 Palestinians lost their lives following a series of Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip, as hopes for a breakthrough in peace talks remain uncertain.
According to local health officials, at least 57 people were killed in multiple locations across the territory on Thursday. The attacks occurred as regional and international efforts continue to push for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, which has stretched for nearly two years.
In southern Gaza, Nasser Hospital reported the deaths of 29 individuals, including 14 in an area frequently used for aid distribution. Another 16 fatalities were recorded in Deir al-Balah, in the central part of the enclave, where Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital received bodies and numerous injured civilians.
Among those killed was a 42-year-old occupational therapist, Dr. Omar Hayek, who worked with Doctors Without Borders. The organization confirmed that Hayek and four colleagues were struck while waiting for transport. The group described him as a devoted and skilled professional, and condemned the strike that caused the casualties.
Hospitals in Gaza City, including Shifa, reported additional casualties, with five more bodies delivered there and several wounded still being treated. Other medical facilities documented seven more deaths tied to ongoing shelling.
The violence comes against the backdrop of a proposed ceasefire plan put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan calls for Hamas to disarm, relinquish control of Gaza, and return all 48 hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian detainees and an end to Israeli military operations. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the proposal, critics note that the deal does not address the broader demand for Palestinian statehood.
Reactions from Hamas leadership have been cautious. An official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said certain aspects of the plan were unacceptable but declined to provide specifics. Meanwhile, mediators from Egypt and Qatar have called for further talks to resolve remaining points of contention.
As diplomatic channels struggle to find common ground, the human toll of the conflict continues to mount, with civilians bearing the brunt of the hostilities on both sides.
