An Israeli airstrike on Tuesday killed at least six people in Gaza City and wounded 14 others. The incident occurred at a crowded café near the city's port, which has become a displacement camp, according to officials at al-Shifa Hospital.
Witnesses said many people were outside their tents seeking relief from the heat when the strike hit. Video posted on social media showed Palestinians lying on the ground covered in blood, while residents rushed to load the wounded into ambulances.
The Israeli military said the airstrike targeted a group of Hamas commanders planning an attack, but did not provide evidence. Hamas condemned the incident, calling it a blatant disregard for all ceasefire appeals from mediators.
The attack comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to reject a 15-point peace plan backed by the United States to end the conflict. Netanyahu stressed that the military will not withdraw from Gaza unless Hamas lays down its arms, while Hamas says it will only disarm after Israel withdraws. Israel currently occupies about 60% of Gaza's territory.
The airstrike occurred a day after Jared Kushner, son-in-law and special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, concluded an unsuccessful visit to the region to promote the peace plan. Both Israel and Hamas have maintained their positions following meetings with the U.S. envoy.
Analysts say Netanyahu, who is preparing for elections in October, may continue to reject the U.S. peace plan until after the vote to preserve his electoral chances, as his ruling coalition lags in opinion polls.
