Gaza City, Dec 22, (V7N) – Gaza’s civil defense agency reported on Sunday that Israeli airstrikes claimed at least 28 lives, with bombardments intensifying near one of the two remaining hospitals in northern Gaza.

The escalating conflict, now more than 14 months into the Israel-Hamas war, continues despite Palestinian groups suggesting a ceasefire deal is "closer than ever."

In central Gaza’s Deir el-Balah, an airstrike killed 13 members of the Abu Samra family, according to civil defense spokesperson Mahmud Bassal. Locals were seen desperately searching rubble for survivors and salvaging belongings.

In Gaza City, a school-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians suffered a direct hit, killing eight people, including four children. The Israeli military confirmed striking what it described as a Hamas "command and control center" at the site.

Another drone strike in the city targeted a vehicle, killing four individuals. In the southern city of Rafah, three lives were lost in overnight strikes.

Hospitals at Risk

Dr. Hossam Abu Safia, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, raised alarm over nearby bombings that damaged the facility's generators. He warned of a significant fire risk due to strikes targeting a full fuel tank.

The military denied knowledge of strikes on the hospital but has not commented on other reports of civilian casualties.

The conflict, ignited by Hamas’s October 2023 attack that killed 1,208 people and led to 251 hostages, has resulted in the deaths of 45,259 Palestinians in Gaza, per the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible.

Despite the violence, a joint statement from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine indicated progress in ceasefire talks mediated by Qatar. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning Gaza's governance post-war.

Pope Francis condemned Israel's actions for a second consecutive day, describing the violence as "cruel" and highlighting the toll on children, schools, and hospitals. His comments prompted backlash from Israel, which accused the Vatican of "double standards" in its criticisms.

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