Hopes Rise for Cease-Fire Amid Surging Gaza Violence

Amid escalating violence in Gaza, mediated cease-fire negotiations are showing promise. An Israeli airstrike killed at least 18 people, all from one family, increasing the urgency. Mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are pressing for an agreement to release hostages and halt the fighting, aiming to prevent wider regional conflict.

As mediators expressed optimism for an imminent cease-fire deal, violence surged in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, where an Israeli airstrike killed at least 18 people, all from the same family.

Days after Hamas-run Gaza's Health Ministry confirmed the death toll had surpassed 40,000 in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, officials from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar concluded two days of cease-fire talks, expressing hope for a deal.

The joint statement said a proposal was offered to bridge gaps between Israel and Hamas, with plans to work out the details next week in Cairo.

(With inputs from agencies.)