Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Intensifies Amid Strained Ceasefire Talks

Israeli forces clashed with Hamas fighters in Gaza, resulting in numerous casualties. As efforts to reach a ceasefire stalled, both sides continued their attacks. The conflict has left Gaza in devastation and raised humanitarian concerns among Palestinians. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are striving to broker peace, despite increased tensions.

In a significant escalation, Israeli forces engaged in fierce battles with Hamas-led fighters across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, leading to the deaths of at least 17 Palestinians, according to local health officials. Israeli bombardments targeted areas in the southern and central Gaza Strip.

Five Palestinians perished in an airstrike in Rafah, while another family of four was killed in Khan Younis. Central Gaza also saw fatalities due to separate shelling and aerial attacks, resulting in four more deaths in the Nuseirat camp and an airstrike in Sheikh Zayed.

The Israeli military stated that it carried out intelligence-led operations targeting militants, tunnels, and Hamas infrastructure, striking around 40 targets including sniping posts and explosive-rigged buildings. On the other side, Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad retaliated with anti-tank rockets and mortar bombs. The conflict has resulted in over 38,000 Palestinian and 326 Israeli military deaths since October 7.

(With inputs from agencies.)