Deadly Strikes in Gaza: A Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds

Israeli airstrikes have killed over 60 Palestinians and targeted 'safe zones' in Gaza, furthering the humanitarian crisis despite scaled-down ground offensives. The conflict, sparked by a Hamas attack in October, has left over 38,600 dead and millions displaced. Efforts for a cease-fire continue amid ongoing violence.

Intense Israeli airstrikes overnight and into Tuesday have resulted in more than 60 Palestinian deaths in southern and central Gaza. A 'safe zone' crowded with displaced individuals was hit, illustrating the heavy toll of near-daily strikes, even as Israel scales back major ground offensives in the north and south.

Tuesday's deadliest strike hit a market-lined main street in Muwasi, near Khan Younis, killing 17 people according to Khan Younis' Nasser Hospital. The military stated that the target was an Islamic Jihad commander and is reviewing reports of civilian casualties. A similar attack on Saturday aimed at Hamas' top military commander, Mohammed Deif, also killed 90 people.

As Israel and Hamas consider the latest cease-fire proposal, international mediators work to end the nine-month conflict, which began with a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October. The ongoing war has claimed more than 38,600 lives, caused widespread displacement, and led to severe humanitarian challenges in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)