At least 13 Palestinians died in Israeli strikes on Rafah

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Digital Desk: Three homes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah were struck by Israeli airstrikes, shattering the calm night. At least 13 Palestinians lost their lives as a result of the strikes, and numerous others were injured, according to medical reports released on Monday. Tragically, media organizations connected to Hamas estimated that there had been even more deaths—15.

After months of shelling, the residents of Rafah had taken sanctuary in their houses in the hopes of finding protection. But the bombings caused destruction, coming just hours before negotiations in Egypt to find a solution to stop the bloodshed.

It was not much better in Gaza City. Health professionals on the ground have confirmed that Israeli planes attacked two residences, increasing the number of dead and injuries, according to Reuters.

According to Israeli accounts, this cycle of violence began with an initial attack on Israel by Hamas militants that resulted in the terrible deaths of many people and the kidnapping of hostages. Israel retaliated by launching a military campaign aimed at overthrowing Gaza's ruling Hamas organization.

According to Gaza health authorities, the effects for the Palestinian people have been grave, with over 34,000 recorded casualties and 66 deaths in the last 24 hours alone.

Peace attempts are continued despite the bloodshed that persists. Officials from Hamas have stated that they are open to talking with Qatari and Egyptian mediators and taking Israel's most recent cease-fire proposal into consideration. In exchange for Palestinians detained in Israeli jails, a restricted number of hostages would be released, and a gradual return to quiet would be specified.

Amid the impending Cairo talks, Hamas expresses cautious hope about the prospects for peace by requesting clarification on Israel's answer.