Gaza’s civil defence agency reported that Israeli forces killed at least 51 people on Monday, including 24 in a strike on a crowded seafront rest area in Gaza City, amid growing international calls for a ceasefire.
The ongoing Israeli offensive comes despite renewed diplomatic efforts following the end of Israel’s brief war with Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Israel to pursue a ceasefire, while Prime Minister Netanyahu is set to visit the White House on July 7 for talks.
Gaza’s humanitarian crisis continues to deepen after more than 20 months of conflict. Civil defence officials said additional casualties occurred near aid distribution points, with witnesses alleging deliberate targeting of civilians.
Among the dead is photojournalist Ismail Abu Hatab. Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror, with body parts strewn across blast sites and hospitals overwhelmed.
Meanwhile, Israel’s defence leadership has indicated that military operations in Gaza may be approaching their conclusion, citing goals such as the release of hostages and defeat of Hamas.
The conflict, which began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack that killed 1,219 people in Israel, has led to over 56,500 deaths in Gaza, according to local health officials. The UN deems these figures credible.
Despite signs of diplomatic progress, including U.S. arms deals with Israel and Qatar’s cautious optimism, immediate ceasefire prospects remain uncertain.
