Israeli airstrikes in Rafah have led to the destruction of a mosque and homes, marking one of the residents’ worst nights.
The assault occurred while Hamas chief was in Cairo for talks aimed at a potential truce to prevent a full-scale attack on the city. Mourners grieved over at least seven confirmed casualties, with many more feared trapped under rubble.
The al-Farouk mosque was leveled, along with several houses.
The bombing, described as the heaviest since a previous raid, has intensified the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over half of the population is now sheltering near the Egyptian border. Talks for a ceasefire two weeks ago failed, with Israel threatening a full-blown assault on Rafah despite international concerns.
Aid flow to the region has significantly decreased, pushing residents to the brink of famine. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s visit to Cairo indicates ongoing negotiations, but details of the talks remain scant.
A Hamas official accuses Israel of backtracking on ceasefire terms agreed upon in February, emphasizing the lack of interest in reaching an agreement. Israel, on the other hand, expresses openness to progress if Hamas shows flexibility, with ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages seized in October.
