23 Killed in Israeli Strikes in Gaza, Including 8 Children

Gaza's civil defence agency reported that 23 people, including eight children, were killed in Israeli bombardments overnight. This came after Hamas announced willingness to release ten Israeli hostages as part of ceasefire talks in Qatar. The death toll included 26 people on the previous day, 29 on the day before, and 12 on the day before that. The bombings targeted central and southern Gaza, with the deadliest strike killing 12 in Deir el-Balah. Children and women were among the casualties, with strikes hitting various locations across Gaza. The Israeli military did not comment on the attacks. Independent verification of the tolls and details was hindered by media restrictions in Gaza.

The conflict began when Hamas attacked Israeli border communities in October 2023, resulting in civilian casualties. Israeli retaliatory strikes have claimed many Palestinian lives, according to Gaza's health ministry. The United Nations considers these figures reliable.

Israel and Hamas are in talks for a possible Gaza ceasefire and hostage-release deal. A senior Israeli official mentioned the potential for an agreement within one or two weeks, emphasizing the need for disarmament by Hamas. If no agreement is reached, Israel may continue military operations in Gaza. US involvement in brokering a ceasefire has been ongoing, with recent discussions indicating progress towards a resolution.

President Trump's recent actions in support of Israel, including the bombing of Iranian nuclear sites, have influenced the dynamics of the conflict. Efforts to capitalize on Iran's weakened state to facilitate a breakthrough in the Gaza war have been observed. Mr. Netanyahu's visit to the US has been marked by discussions on the situation in Gaza and expressions of gratitude towards US support.

Israeli intelligence suggests that Iran's enriched uranium remains at specific sites despite recent bombings. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons.

According to the source: RTE.ie.