Israeli Strikes Kill 23 in Gaza as Mediators Pursue Truce Proposal

Arab mediators, led by Egypt and Qatar, are working on a proposal to end the Israel-Hamas war that would include a five- to seven-year truce, a gradual Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of remaining hostages and Palestinian prisoners. The discussions follow a series of deadly Israeli strikes, including one on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City that killed multiple civilians. The proposed truce would involve international guarantees and potentially establish a technocratic government in Gaza, though Israel has opposed any outcome that allows Hamas to retain influence or rearm. Humanitarian concerns have intensified, with France, Germany, and Britain condemning Israel’s ongoing blockade of Gaza as 'intolerable.' Hamas insists it will only release hostages in exchange for a complete Israeli withdrawal and a lasting ceasefire, while Israel continues to demand the group’s disarmament and vows to hold parts of Gaza indefinitely. The evolving negotiations underscore deep mistrust between the parties and highlight the urgent need for humanitarian relief in the territory.