Despite Donald Trump, the U.S. president, announcing progress along the path to a Gaza ceasefire agreement, Israeli attacks continued for a second consecutive day, and according to Palestinian sources, at least 15 people were killed. Reuters reported that attacks on Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis caused the highest daily death toll in recent weeks.

Israel’s energy minister, Eli Cohen, said there is no agreement to halt the attacks, and if Hamas is not disarmed, Israel must take full control of Gaza. He added that about 70% of the area is currently under the control of Israeli forces, and the dismantling of Hamas remains Israel’s main condition.

In response, Hamas accused Israel of escalating attacks in the wake of imposing new realities on the ground and thwarting political efforts to end the war. The Israeli army also said that some attacks were aimed at Hamas commanders and is reviewing the results of the operations