The violence persists despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as efforts to secure a lasting agreement remain stalled. A family of five—three children and their parents—died when an Israeli strike hit a residential apartment in northwest Gaza City. The civil defence agency's spokesman, Mahmoud Bassal, said the only surviving family member was a child who was not home at the time. Al-Shifa hospital confirmed receiving the five bodies. An Israeli military spokeswoman said the strike targeted "a Hamas terrorist" and that the military was still assessing results. However, residents reported no warning. Mousa Al-Aimawi described the missile striking the building suddenly, saying, "They hit it without caring that there are civilians, children, women, girls." Another resident, Mohammed Kali, saw bodies scattered on the ground, including women, children, and the elderly. AFP footage showed large sections of the building's facade torn away. Three more people were killed by an airstrike in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood, and hours later, a woman died when "Israeli artillery shelling" struck a tent sheltering displaced people east of Zeitoun. Several others were wounded, and three remain missing. Health officials reported two additional deaths elsewhere.

Since the ceasefire took effect in  October, at least 1,144 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza's health ministry. Israel reports five soldiers and one civilian contractor killed over the same period. AFP notes that restrictions on media and limited access in Gaza prevent independent verification of tolls. (Bssnews)