Israeli airstrike kills nine people in north Gaza town

At least nine Palestinians, including two local journalists, were killed in an Israeli airstrike on Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza on Saturday, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Several others were wounded, with some in critical condition.

The strike hit a car, causing casualties both inside and outside the vehicle, health officials told Reuters.

Witnesses said those in the targeted car were on a mission for Al-Khair Foundation, a charity operating in Gaza. Palestinian media reported that at least three journalists were among the dead.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

Ceasefire at risk

The attack comes despite a January 19 ceasefire agreement that halted large-scale fighting. However, Palestinian health officials report that Israeli fire has continued, killing dozens despite the truce.

Israel claims its forces target threats, including individuals it accuses of planting explosives or approaching Israeli positions.

Ceasefire talks in Cairo

The airstrike coincided with a visit to Cairo by Hamas' exiled Gaza chief, Khalil Al-Hayya, who is engaged in negotiations with mediators over the next phase of a potential ceasefire agreement.

Israel has so far rejected advancing to a second phase of talks, which would include negotiations on a permanent end to the war—Hamas' key demand. Instead, Israeli leaders favor extending the temporary first phase of the ceasefire.

On Friday, Hamas offered to release an American-Israeli dual national if Israel commits to further ceasefire negotiations. Israel dismissed the proposal as "psychological warfare."

Israel’s military campaign in Gaza since October 7, 2023 Hamas attack has killed over 48,000 people, created a massive humanitarian crisis, and widespread displacement.

Hamas’ cross-border raid into Israeli territory claimed 1,200 lives. It also took more than 251 people captive.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a cross-border raid into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli authorities. The war has also sparked accusations of genocide and war crimes, which Israel denies.