Israeli airstrikes kill 21 in Gaza, medics report

Israeli gunfire and airstrikes killed at least 21 Palestinians in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health authorities. Mediators are reaching out to Israel and Hamas to resume ceasefire talks and end the war.

Health authorities reported that an Israeli airstrike killed nine people at a school housing displaced families in Gaza City. Another strike killed nine near a tent encampment in Khan Younis. Additionally, three people were killed by Israeli gunfire as crowds awaited UN aid trucks in central Gaza.

Arab mediators, Egypt and Qatar, supported by the United States, are working to facilitate new ceasefire talks. Israel's Prime Minister insists on Hamas releasing hostages, relinquishing power, and disarming to end the conflict.

Hamas, on the other hand, is willing to release hostages if Israel agrees to a permanent ceasefire and withdraws from Gaza. The group refuses to discuss disarmament, despite Israel's efforts to eliminate Hamas militants.

Since the 2023 attack by Hamas-led militants, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. Most hostages have been released through indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel.