Tragic Gaza Airstrike Escalates Tensions Amid Ceasefire Talks

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza's Zawayda town killed 17 Palestinians, including eight children, escalating tensions. The strike targeted an area believed to launch rockets at Israel, leading to widespread evacuations. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to engage in ceasefire discussions in Israel.

An Israeli airstrike on Gaza's Zawayda town claimed the lives of 17 Palestinians, including eight children, state local health officials. The incident has amplified strains in the region as Israel issued fresh evacuation orders, citing Hamas rocket fire.

Residents recounted the harrowing experience, noting the targeted house contained a known merchant's family with no military ties. However, the Israeli military stated that the area was a site for rocket launches, and the incident is under investigation.

Israel's military spokesperson released evacuation instructions on social media in Arabic, urging central Gaza residents to move to designated humanitarian zones. As a result, thousands fled areas like Maghazi. Concurrently, diplomatic efforts are underway with U.S. Secretary of State Blinken arriving in Israel to discuss potential ceasefire agreements.

(With inputs from agencies.)