Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed at least 143 people today, including 132 in the northern Strip, medical sources told Al Jazeera. New ceasefire talks are due to take place in Egypt this week, but for Palestinian civilians trapped in the Strip, every day brings a constant threat of air strikes. Beit Lahia was recently hit by Israeli air strikes following a military offensive launched nearly three weeks ago to counter Hamas activities in northern Gaza. One strike hit a five-story building, killing “93 people,” according to the Hamas-linked Palestinian civil defense agency. Twenty children were among the dead, while around 40 people were missing under the rubble. UNICEF has highlighted the ongoing humanitarian tragedy, with witnesses describing heartbreaking scenes.

The Israeli military announced it was investigating the incident, but disputed the death toll, calling for caution when it comes to the figures released by Hamas, which it considers part of its propaganda. Beit Lahia has been described by the IDF as an area actively involved in fighting. The possibility of a ceasefire still appears distant. Mossad chief David Barnea will lead the Israeli delegation to the negotiations in Egypt after recent talks in Doha. Several proposals are being discussed, including a two-day truce for the release of four Israeli hostages. Another proposal is for a 28-day break in fighting in exchange for the release of eight hostages and the release of several Palestinian prisoners.

In addition to the situation in Gaza, there are also developments in the conflict with Hezbollah, which recently appointed Naim Qassem as its new leader. Israeli sources have said that Israel is seeking diplomatic guarantees to end the clashes with pro-Iranian groups. The US special envoy will be in Israel next week to facilitate a negotiated resolution to the conflict in Lebanon as well. In the meantime, the IDF continues to strike various areas of Lebanon, causing numerous deaths and injuries.

Israel has taken action against UNRWA, banning all activities of the UN agency in the country. This decision has sparked strong international reactions and concerns about assistance to Palestinian refugees. The UN Secretary-General has warned of the devastating consequences that could result from the implementation of the law, and the European Union has called on Israel to review its position to comply with international law. The United States has drawn attention to how crucial it is to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and how words must translate into concrete actions on the ground.