At least 60 people have been killed in Israeli strikes across Gaza since late Friday, as the humanitarian crisis intensifies despite growing prospects for a ceasefire. Health workers reported continuous bombardments into Saturday morning.

Tragically, 12 individuals died near Palestine Stadium in Gaza City, a shelter for displaced people, and eight more in apartments. Their bodies, along with over 20 others, were transported to Shifa and Nasser Hospitals, respectively, illustrating the devastating toll.

Midday Saturday, another strike in eastern Gaza City claimed 11 lives, their bodies taken to Al-Ahli Hospital. These attacks occur as US President Donald Trump suggests a **ceasefire agreement could materialize within the next week**, indicating high-level diplomatic engagement.

Ron Dermer, Israel's Minister for Strategic Affairs, is reportedly heading to Washington next week for ceasefire discussions, alongside talks on Iran and other critical issues. This signals ongoing efforts to de-escalate the 21-month-long conflict.

Ceasefire talks have been intermittent since Israel broke the last agreement in March. Approximately 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with fewer than half believed to be alive, a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict. Over 56,000 Palestinians have been killed.

Meanwhile, desperate Palestinians face severe food shortages. Aid distribution is hindered by looting and desperate crowds, with reports of Palestinians being shot while seeking food at new, US- and Israeli-backed aid sites.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2606138/middle-east