CAIRO: Egypt on Sunday hosted envoys from the United States, Qatar and Hamas for talks on a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian resistance group, the latest diplomatic effort as Gaza officials reported more deadly Israeli bombardment in the nearly five-month-old aggression.
Envoys from the United States, Qatar, and Hamas have convened in Cairo amidst intensifying efforts to secure a truce before the onset of the holy month of Ramadan, slated to commence on March 10 or 11.
A senior official from Hamas told AFP that discussions will center on a proposal for a six-week ceasefire, following reports of broad acceptance by Israel of its terms.
However, as diplomatic negotiations unfold, Gaza continues to witness relentless Israeli violence, with the health ministry reporting at least 90 Palestinians killed in the past 24 hours. Among the casualties were 14 family members, whose house in the southern Rafah refugee camp had been hit. The deceased included twin babies Naeem and Wissam Abu Anza, buried amidst scenes of heart-wrenching grief.
Deepening Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has exacerbated, with at least 16 children succumbing to malnutrition in recent days. Efforts to address the dire situation are further hindered by dwindling relief supplies, prompting the United States to conduct its first airdrop of aid.
While international pressure mounts for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access, the situation remains dire on the ground. Pope Francis has called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Several foreign leaders have demanded an investigation into the Israeli forces storming of an aid truck, which the Gaza health ministry said resulted in the deaths of 116 Palestinian civilians.
The ministry said Israeli forces shot civilians, but the Israeli army insisted most died in a stampede or crush. The aid convoy deaths pushed the war death toll in Gaza to at least 30,410, mostly women and children, the health ministry said Sunday.
In response to the recent deaths during an aid convoy attack, the Israeli army has launched an investigation, pledging transparency in its findings. Meanwhile, intense Israeli airstrikes and tank shelling were reported in southern Gaza.
