Israeli Strikes Result in Three Palestinian Casualties, Including Two Children, as Ceasefire Talks Continue

CAIRO: Israeli airstrikes have caused at least three Palestinian deaths, including two minors, in the Gaza Strip on Thursday, according to local health authorities, while diplomatic efforts in Cairo progressed toward finalizing a comprehensive ceasefire agreement.
Medical reports confirmed an Israeli bombardment of a temporary settlement in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of a man and an eight-year-old girl. Separately, an explosion in the Bureij refugee camp devastated a home, killing an 18-month-old infant and injuring eight others.
The Israeli Defense Forces stated both operations specifically targeted militant positions.
These incidents contribute to a rising civilian death toll—exceeding 1,200 Palestinians since the ceasefire commenced—reported by Gaza’s health services. Hamas has not publicly disclosed its losses during this period. While the truce has diminished large-scale combat, sporadic Israeli attacks persist. Four Israeli soldiers have been killed by local armed groups over the same timeframe.
Diplomatic Efforts
In Cairo, Hamas representatives convened with Egyptian, Qatari, and Turkish mediators to advance implementation of the second phase of President Trump’s proposed Gaza peace framework, as delivered by his designated Peace Board. The plan outlines increased humanitarian aid distribution, civilian governance establishment, Hamas disarmament, full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, and deployment of an international security force.
Despite months of deadlock, recent discussions have shown renewed momentum. A Hamas spokesperson indicated the group would provide a “positive and constructive” response to proposals, though specifics on complete weapons surrender—a critical negotiation hurdle—remained unresolved.
Hamas has consistently demanded Israel halt attacks and withdraw forces from Gaza. Internal Hamas sources reported the group’s position involves storing heavy weapons under Palestinian civilian control rather than transferring them to Israel—a condition yet to receive formal Israeli or Peace Board acceptance.
The Peace Board withheld immediate comments regarding the Cairo negotiations. Israel insists on Hamas relinquishing all authority in Gaza and full military disarmament. Although Hamas disbanded its governing body last month while maintaining essential service administration, Israel maintains de facto control over approximately 64% of the territory following its 2023 military campaign.
With Gaza’s 2 million residents now confined to a restricted coastal zone primarily in tents or damaged structures under Hamas administration, humanitarian conditions remain catastrophic.

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