An Israeli airstrike in Deir Al Balah, central Gaza, killed 15 people on Thursday, including 10 children, according to local health workers and officials. The attack happened as civilians queued outside a health centre run by Project Hope to receive food supplements and medical care.
The facility has been shut down until further notice, as confirmed by medical authorities on the ground.
Project Hope Calls Strike a Violation of Law
Project Hope’s Chief Executive Rabih Torbay said the strike was a direct attack on civilians, calling it “a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.” He added that “innocent families were mercilessly attacked as they stood in line waiting for the doors to open.”
Israel Says It Was Targeting a Hamas Militant
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated the strike aimed to eliminate a Hamas terrorist linked to the October 7 attack. In their official response, the military acknowledged the civilian casualties, saying it was “aware of reports regarding a number of injured individuals in the area.” The IDF further noted that “the incident is under review” and that it “regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and operates to minimise harm as much as possible.”
Dozens More Killed Across Gaza
The Palestinian health ministry reported that Israeli airstrikes across Gaza have killed at least 67 more people in the past 24 hours. The strikes come as Israel has intensified both air raids and ground operations throughout the territory.
Hamas Launches Counterattacks
In retaliation, Hamas militants have launched guerrilla-style attacks on Israeli troops. According to reports, at least 20 Israeli soldiers have been killed in different parts of Gaza during the same time period.
Ceasefire Talks Ongoing in Doha
Meanwhile, indirect ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas began in Doha on Sunday. These discussions aim to achieve a temporary truce, ensure the release of hostages, and improve humanitarian aid access.
Netanyahu Open to Permanent Truce—With Conditions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a video message from Washington that Israel was willing to talk about a permanent end to the war, but only under certain terms. He stated, “At the beginning of this ceasefire, we will enter negotiations for a permanent end to the war.”
However, Netanyahu insisted the talks could only happen during a 60-day truce and only if Gaza is demilitarised.
US Offers Proposal
Steve Witkoff, the US envoy to the Middle East, proposed a 60-day ceasefire deal in exchange for the release of half of the 20 remaining hostages believed to be alive in Gaza. According to Netanyahu, this suggestion forms the basis of the ongoing negotiations.
Humanitarian Concerns Mount
As violence escalates, civilians in Gaza continue to suffer. Thursday’s deadly strike near a health centre highlights the rising risk for non-combatants, especially children, who were among the victims.
Though the October 2023 attack by Hamas triggered the war, the current situation shows no clear end. Still, negotiators in Doha are trying to find a way to pause the conflict and open a path to peace.