Israel Bombs Gaza School, Killing 15; Hamas to Free US-Israeli Captive Edan Alexander

Israel has bombed a Gaza school that was being used as a shelter, killing at least 15 people. The bombing comes as Israel’s blockade of Gaza enters its 71st day. In a related development, Hamas has confirmed that it will release US-Israeli captive Edan Alexander. The group also announced that it has held direct talks with the United States about the release.

Israel Bombs Gaza Shelter, Killing 15 People

Israeli airstrikes hit a school in Gaza that had been turned into a shelter for displaced civilians. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, as confirmed by Gaza’s Health Ministry. The bombing is part of Israel’s ongoing military operation in Gaza, which has been in place for more than two months, leading to a heavy loss of life on both sides of the conflict.

The war, which started in October 2023, has caused widespread destruction. Israel’s military forces have continued to target various sites across Gaza, including residential areas and shelters. Over 52,829 Palestinians have been killed, with more than 119,554 wounded since the conflict began. Gaza’s Government Media Office has updated the number of fatalities to more than 61,700, as many are feared dead under the rubble of bombed buildings.

Hamas to Release US-Israeli Captive Edan Alexander

Hamas has announced plans to release Edan Alexander, a US-Israeli citizen who has been held captive since the beginning of the conflict. The group confirmed that it has been in direct talks with the United States about his release, signaling a possible shift in the dynamics of hostage negotiations. The announcement comes as efforts to secure the freedom of other captives continue.

Edan Alexander was one of more than 200 people captured by Hamas during its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The incident marked one of the deadliest days of the conflict, with 1,139 people killed in Israel. The ongoing conflict has seen both sides suffer heavy casualties and has drawn international concern.

Israel’s Continued Blockade on Gaza

The blockade on Gaza has now entered its 71st day, with Israel cutting off supplies of food, water, and medical aid to the region. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened as a result, with thousands of people trapped without access to essential services.

Israel has stated that the blockade is necessary to weaken Hamas’ military capabilities, but critics argue that it is causing immense suffering for the civilian population. Reports from international aid organizations indicate that hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed with casualties, while food and clean water are in short supply.

Israeli Attacks on Yemen’s Hodeidah

In addition to its operations in Gaza, Israel has also launched attacks on the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah. The Israeli military warned residents of three ports in Yemen—Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and Salif—to evacuate, citing security concerns due to Houthi control of these areas. The attacks on Yemen come amid rising tensions in the Middle East, as Israel faces increased pressure on multiple fronts.

Global Reactions and Ongoing Talks

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has drawn widespread international condemnation, with calls for an immediate ceasefire from various global leaders and organizations. The United Nations has warned of the devastating impact the conflict is having on civilians, particularly in Gaza, where the death toll continues to rise.

Diplomatic efforts to end the violence have intensified in recent weeks. The announcement of direct talks between Hamas and the United States regarding hostage releases has raised hopes for a potential resolution, but the situation remains volatile. The release of Edan Alexander could serve as a significant step toward further negotiations, though challenges remain in securing the freedom of other captives.