Efforts to broker a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza have intensified, according to a senior Hamas official, despite continued deadly clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian civilians. The push comes after the recent end of a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which saw US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran.
US President Donald Trump claimed “great progress” was being made and said his envoy, Steve Witkoff, believed a truce was “very close.” However, both Hamas and Israeli officials indicated that negotiations remain stalled, with no new proposals on the table and key disagreements unresolved.
Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Wednesday killed at least 45 Palestinians, including civilians waiting for aid, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The toll adds to over 860 Palestinians killed during the recent conflict. At the same time, seven Israeli soldiers were reported killed in Khan Younis by a Hamas-planted explosive device the deadliest such incident since March.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Israel had imposed a total blockade in early March but partially lifted it after international pressure. The controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by Israel and the US, has distributed over 44 million meals since May 26. However, UN agencies and aid groups refuse to cooperate, citing violations of humanitarian principles and the danger to civilians near GHF sites—areas often within Israeli military zones.
The Gaza health ministry reports at least 549 deaths and 4,000 injuries among Palestinians attempting to collect aid since the GHF began operations. Eyewitnesses describe aid points as “death points,” as Israeli forces reportedly open fire near distribution sites—claims the Israeli military and GHF deny.
Inside Israel, political pressure is mounting. Ultra-Orthodox party leader Moshe Gafni questioned the war’s purpose following the deaths of Israeli soldiers, urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to pursue a ceasefire and return the hostages.
As the conflict continues, the population of Gaza remains caught in a humanitarian catastrophe, with aid scarce, violence ongoing, and diplomatic breakthroughs elusive.
