Israeli Airstrikes Kill 25 in Gaza Amid US Ambassador's Visit

At least 25 people, including children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Friday, with strikes targeting locations such as Khan Younis and the Jabalia refugee camp. The escalation comes as Israel intensifies pressure on Hamas to return hostages and disarm, while international mediators, including the U.S., push for a ceasefire. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee made his first public appearance in Jerusalem, visiting the Western Wall and placing a prayer handwritten by President Donald Trump, symbolizing U.S. hopes for peace. Huckabee emphasized ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the peace process. The situation remains tense as Israel demands hostages be released at the outset of any new ceasefire and has proposed occupying large security zones in Gaza, conditions that Hamas has so far rejected. The conflict continues amid longstanding disputes over Jerusalem and the future of Gaza and the West Bank.