Israeli forces continue their offensive in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 Palestinians amid a looming deadline for Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposed by the US.
The casualties include individuals harmed in an attack on a school where war refugees sought shelter. Al-Falah school in Gaza City’s eastern Zeitoun neighborhood was struck twice within minutes. First responders were among those killed. Additionally, separate strikes in Gaza City claimed more lives, including a couple in the Nuseirat refugee camp and an individual in the Bureij refugee camp.
The Israeli army reported that sirens went off in communities near Gaza as two projectiles crossed into Israel. Meanwhile, a 50-boat activist flotilla, carrying notables like Greta Thunberg, attempted to breach Israel’s blockade of Gaza, leading to a stand-off with Israeli forces.
Amidst these events, Egypt’s Foreign Minister and Qatar have raised concerns about a 20-point peace plan that calls for Hamas to release hostages, relinquish power in Gaza, and disarm. The plan also promises humanitarian aid, reconstruction in Gaza, and international oversight.
In a separate incident, a fleet of 50 boats carrying activists and aid for Gaza faced interception by Israeli forces. Several individuals, including a journalist from the UK, were arrested. Communication with the flotilla vessels has been severed, and the Israeli Navy’s interceptions are expected to continue into the following day.
