Israeli airstrikes struck areas of southern Gaza on Thursday, adding new urgency to stalled international efforts aimed at securing a temporary halt in fighting. Explosions were reported in Khan Younis, where residents described rushing to escape as bombs landed near residential blocks. The strikes occurred while negotiators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt continued attempts to revive a ceasefire and broker a hostage-release agreement.
In northern Gaza, Israeli ground troops expanded their advance deeper into Gaza City, moving into the Tel al-Hawa and Sheikh Ijlin neighborhoods. Forces pushed beyond a previously announced perimeter, prompting fresh waves of displacement as civilians fled the renewed fighting. Witnesses reported heavy gunfire and close-quarters battles as Israeli units clashed with Hamas fighters. Military officials said the operation targeted militants who had regrouped in areas earlier cleared by ground forces.
Diplomatic efforts showed little sign of progress. A senior Hamas official said the talks had reached a standstill, claiming no meaningful breakthroughs had been achieved. Israeli representatives, meanwhile, argued that major points of disagreement remain unresolved, describing Hamas’s expectations as far beyond what Israel views as feasible. Mediators indicated that while discussions will continue, the path to a ceasefire remains uncertain.
