Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Leave 20 Dead as Cease-Fire Talks Continue

Israeli airstrikes early Wednesday killed 20 Palestinians in Gaza, including children and women inside a 'safe zone.' This incident coincides with ongoing cease-fire talks in Doha involving U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators. Efforts for a cease-fire remain hindered by significant obstacles, despite some progress in negotiations.

Israeli airstrikes early Wednesday killed 20 Palestinians in Gaza, including six children and three women, notably inside a 'safe zone' declared by the Israeli military, hospital authorities reported.

This marked the second consecutive night of strikes in Deir al-Balah and nearby refugee camps as U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators, along with Israeli officials, convened in Doha for cease-fire talks.

Despite narrowing gaps, significant hurdles persist in negotiations. Early Wednesday, airstrikes in Nuseirat refugee camp claimed 12 lives, including five children, hospital authorities confirmed at al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where the bodies were counted by an Associated Press reporter. Further strikes in Deir al-Balah killed additional civilians in the 'safe zone.' In the past nine months, Israeli bombardments have caused over 38,200 deaths and displaced nearly the entire Gazan population.

(With inputs from agencies.)