Israeli Strikes Persist in Gaza Despite U.S. Ceasefire Roadmap

Thirteen Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Sunday, marking the deadliest single day in weeks. The violence persists despite Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations, as Israeli officials remain deeply skeptical of Hamas’s willingness to disarm or adhere to the proposed terms.

Editorial·August 2, 2026·reads: 499

Israeli warplanes struck targets in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis throughout the day, hitting residential apartments, houses, and tent encampments. Palestinian health officials reported that the casualties included families in Mawasi and near the Egyptian representative mission. The Israeli military stated that the operations in Deir al-Balah and Jabalia were intended to neutralize commanders and operatives from Hamas’s elite Nukhba force, though the military noted it is still reviewing the outcomes of these strikes.

Energy Minister Eli Cohen, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet, dismissed claims of a formal halt to hostilities. He maintained that the government expects Hamas to disarm, suggesting that Israel may seek full control of the enclave if the militant group fails to comply. Since the October ceasefire agreement, Gaza health authorities report 1,230 Palestinian deaths, while Israeli tallies account for four soldier fatalities.

Diplomatic efforts remain strained by conflicting interpretations of the U.S.-led 15-point roadmap. Hamas official Basem Naim accused Israel of escalating violence to sabotage political progress and impose territorial control by force. Meanwhile, former Fatah official Mohammed Dahlan stated he is in contact with U.S. adviser Jared Kushner to salvage the agreement, emphasizing that the initiative’s success hinges on an immediate end to daily Israeli strikes.