CAIRO/BEIRUT — Hopes for a ceasefire between Israel and groups like Hamas and Hezbollah faded on Friday. Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed at least 68 people, while Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, was also heavily bombed.
The Israeli military said one of the strikes killed senior Hamas leader Izz al-Din Kassab in Khan Younis, Gaza, who was known for coordinating actions with other groups. U.S. officials have been working to secure a ceasefire, hoping to calm the situation before the U.S. election next week. However, Hamas, which governs Gaza, said it won’t agree to a truce unless it includes a full end to fighting and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel emphasized that security remains his priority “no matter the pressure.” Israel continues its offensive, with heavy airstrikes reported in central and southern Gaza. Medics say 14 people died when a school sheltering displaced families was struck, and others were killed in their cars as they tried to escape.
The situation in northern Gaza is “apocalyptic,” say U.N. officials, with people at risk from disease, hunger, and violence. Israel also attacked areas of Beirut early Friday morning, marking the first bombardment in nearly a week. Many residents accuse Israel of violating laws and morality, calling for limits to be imposed on the violence.
In the lead-up to the U.S. election, truce talks have stalled, with Hamas stating that the current proposals don’t meet their needs for an end to fighting and rebuilding Gaza. The violence has caused huge casualties, with more than 43,000 Palestinians and nearly 3,000 Lebanese lives lost.
