Israel Escalates Gaza Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire Talks in Washington

Northern Gaza experienced one of its most intense bombardments in weeks on Monday night, with explosions rocking schools, homes, and densely populated areas. Witnesses described the relentless strikes as resembling earthquakes. Israeli tanks moved into eastern parts of Gaza City while jets bombed at least four schools that had been sheltering displaced families. At least 38 people were killed, including 10 in the Zeitoun neighborhood and 13 near southwestern Gaza City.

The Israeli military said it targeted Hamas command centers in the north and claimed steps were taken to limit civilian casualties. Yet residents and medics reported high civilian tolls. These latest strikes followed new Israeli evacuation orders, pushing more people from already devastated areas in the north toward the south.

This wave of violence comes just as Israeli officials arrive in Washington for fresh ceasefire discussions. U.S. President Donald Trump recently urged a resolution to the war and the release of remaining hostages. Ron Dermer, a close aide to Prime Minister Netanyahu, is expected at the White House to discuss not only Gaza but also Iran and broader regional dynamics.

Netanyahu's security cabinet is also expected to meet to discuss Israel’s next moves in Gaza. While the military chief recently claimed the operation was nearing its goals, the on-the-ground reality paints a different picture. Hostage negotiations are gaining urgency, with 20 believed to still be alive.

Despite international calls for restraint, especially from European leaders like Austria’s foreign minister, Israel maintains that Hamas must be dismantled before any ceasefire can be permanent. Meanwhile, Hamas demands a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with more than 80% of Gaza under military control or evacuation orders.

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A renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza is underway as both Israeli and U.S. officials intensify diplomatic efforts. Israel’s foreign minister confirmed the country has agreed to a U.S.-proposed 60-day truce that includes the release of half the hostages held by Hamas. The deal would also involve the return of Palestinian prisoners and the remains of others. A second phase would see the release of remaining hostages and possibly mark the end of the war.

However, Hamas has refused to disarm or surrender, demanding that Israel end the war and withdraw its forces. Israeli leaders insist that the conflict can only end if Hamas is fully dismantled. These opposing positions continue to stall peace efforts, despite mediation by Qatar and Egypt.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly dire. Austria’s foreign minister warned Israel that civilian suffering is damaging relations with Europe and called for the unrestricted flow of aid and the release of hostages. Israel accuses Hamas of stealing humanitarian aid, while Hamas claims Israel is using starvation as a weapon.

The war, now in its 20th month, was triggered on October 7, 2023, when Hamas fighters entered Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages in a surprise assault. In retaliation, Israel launched an extensive military campaign. According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 56,000 Palestinians mostly civilians have been killed, and nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced.

Today, over 80% of Gaza is under Israeli military control or evacuation orders. The UN and aid agencies warn of worsening conditions, especially for children and the elderly. While diplomatic doors remain open, progress hinges on significant shifts from both sides, especially as global pressure on Israel continues to grow.