Israeli airstrikes and tank operations continued across Gaza on Tuesday, destroying homes and forcing thousands of residents to flee, even as Israeli officials prepared to discuss a possible ceasefire in Washington. At least 20 people were killed in the latest wave of violence, according to local health authorities.
Tanks pushed into Gaza City’s eastern districts, including Shejaia and Zeitoun, as well as deeper into Khan Younis and Rafah in the south. Clusters of houses were flattened, and newly displaced families were seen setting up tents in the streets. “We don’t sleep because of the sounds of explosions,” said Ismail, a resident of Sheikh Radwan, in a text message to Reuters.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, arrived in Washington to hold talks with U.S. officials. The meetings are expected to focus on ending the Gaza conflict and exploring regional diplomatic solutions following Israel’s recent war with Iran.
According to U.S. and Israeli officials, Netanyahu is also set to travel to Washington next week to meet former President Donald Trump on July 7. Their discussions will likely cover Iran, Gaza, Syria, and broader regional security challenges.
Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri urged the U.S. to push Israel towards peace. “We call upon the U.S. administration to atone for its sin towards Gaza by declaring an end to the war,” he stated. While ceasefire talks have stalled, Egypt and Qatar continue their efforts to mediate, though no date has been set for new negotiations.
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s military response has since killed more than 56,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, and displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza, triggering a severe humanitarian crisis.