In a tragic turn of events, an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza city of Rafah has reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people. The strike targeted tents that were housing displaced individuals, according to Palestinian medics who spoke to the Associated Press. Eyewitnesses in Gaza claimed that eight airstrikes hit tents located in western Rafah, with an estimated death toll of 40. However, these reports could not be independently confirmed.

The tents that were struck were part of a camp situated just 200 meters away from the largest United Nations warehouse in the Gaza Strip. Disturbing footage from the scene depicted heavy destruction, while eyewitnesses disclosed that both civilians and non-civilians were among the casualties. The injured were promptly rushed to Emirati Hospital for medical assistance.

Witnesses further stated that the Israeli airstrike occurred hours after Hamas fired a barrage of rockets from Gaza towards central Israel. Rocket sirens were activated in cities like Tel Aviv, marking the first time in months that such an incident had taken place. Hamas' military wing claimed responsibility for the attack, which could be heard in central Gaza as well.

Amidst this escalating violence, it is important to note that the International Court of Justice recently ordered Israel to cease its military offensive in Rafah. Despite this, Israel's defense minister, Yoav Gallant, was present in Rafah and received a briefing on the ongoing operations in the area.

The news of the strike comes after the Israeli Defense Forces reported intercepting several projectiles launched from Rafah towards Israel. It was the first instance of a long-range rocket attack from Gaza since January, and there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage resulting from these projectiles.

Meanwhile, humanitarian aid trucks entered Gaza from southern Israel, aiming to address the dire situation caused by the conflict. However, due to the ongoing fighting, it remains uncertain whether these aid efforts would successfully reach those in need. Egypt has refused to reopen its side of the Rafah crossing until control of the Gaza side is restored to Palestinians. As an alternative, aid traffic has been temporarily redirected through Israel's Kerem Shalom crossing.

The incessant war between Israel and Hamas, now in its eighth month, has taken a heavy toll on the Palestinian population. Local health officials report that nearly 36,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, with around 80% of Gaza's 2.3 million people being displaced from their homes. The region continues to face severe hunger, and U.N. officials have warned that certain areas are experiencing famine-like conditions.

In a separate matter, negotiations are underway involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. U.S. diplomatic efforts are expected to continue in the coming week, with progress being reported by a senior Biden administration official.

As the conflict in Gaza shows no sign of abating, the international community is urged to redouble its efforts towards peace-building and finding a sustainable solution that would bring an end to the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians.