Renewed Assault in Khan Younis Amid Cease-Fire Talks

Israeli troops launched a new attack on Khan Younis targeting Hamas fighters, causing another mass Palestinian exodus. This occurs as the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt push for a cease-fire agreement. Mediators aim to broker peace amid Israel's vow to end Hamas, which it blames for recent attacks.

Israeli troops launched a fresh assault on Friday in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, targeting Hamas fighters whom the military alleges still operate despite several offensives. This comes as American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators renew efforts for a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas.

The Israeli evacuation orders led to another mass exodus of Palestinians from the heavily destroyed eastern districts of Khan Younis, where many had returned just two weeks ago after the last Israeli incursion. Thousands fled Thursday, carrying essentials such as small gas cylinders, mattresses, tents, backpacks, and blankets.

Israeli and American officials believe Yahya Sinwar, the newly appointed Hamas leader and architect of the October 7 attack on Israel, might be hiding in tunnels beneath Khan Younis. The Israeli military reported that its warplanes struck 30 Hamas targets, including fighters and weapon storage sites, as troops searched for Hamas infrastructure above and below ground. Negotiators prepare for new talks in either Doha or Cairo on August 15, aiming to reach a cease-fire deal.