Israeli forces have stepped up their military campaign in Gaza. As a result, at least 69 Palestinians were killed. Meanwhile, Hamas is weighing a ceasefire offer that the United States is trying to mediate.

School Shelter Bombed, 15 Dead

One of the deadliest strikes hit a school used as a shelter in Gaza City. According to the Hamas-run Civil Defence agency, the attack killed 15 people, mostly women and children.

In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they targeted the building. They said it was housing a “key” Hamas operative.

Aid-Line Attack Sparks Dispute

In another incident, 38 people were killed while waiting to receive aid or on their way to collect it. However, the Israeli military denied the claim. Instead, it called the reports of mass casualties “lies.”

This has led to further confusion and tension on the ground.

IDF Intensifies Strikes

According to the IDF, its fighter jets hit 150 Hamas-linked targets in the past 24 hours. These included fighters, tunnels, and weapons storage sites. The strikes show a clear escalation in military activity.

Trump Pushes for Ceasefire and Civilian Safety

At the same time, U.S. President Donald Trump urged both sides to agree to a truce. He emphasized the need to protect civilians in Gaza.

“I want the people of Gaza to be safe more importantly,” Trump told reporters on Thursday. “I want to see safety for the people of Gaza. They’ve gone through hell.”

Looking ahead, Trump is scheduled to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington next week. During that visit, he is expected to push hard for a ceasefire agreement.

Netanyahu Reaffirms Commitment to Hostages

Meanwhile, Netanyahu promised to rescue all Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. He made this statement during a visit to Nir Oz kibbutz, which lost the most people in the 2023 Hamas attacks.

“I feel a deep commitment, first and foremost, to ensure the return of all our abductees, all of them,” Netanyahu said.
“We will bring them all back.”

His office later released the video. Like Trump, Netanyahu is preparing for their meeting next week, where peace efforts will be high on the agenda.