Israeli forces intensified bombardments of eastern Gaza City overnight Tuesday, killing at least 11 people, witnesses and medics reported. The strikes come ahead of Hamas political leader Khalil Al-Hayya’s arrival in Cairo for renewed ceasefire talks with Egyptian mediators, aiming to revive a U.S.-backed proposal for a 60-day truce and hostage exchange.

Stalled Negotiations and Military Plans

The last round of indirect talks in Qatar ended in July without agreement, as Israel and Hamas accused each other of obstructing progress. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans for a new offensive to retake Gaza City in October, sparking criticism from Israel’s military chief, who warned it could endanger hostages and Israeli soldiers.

A Palestinian official told Reuters that Hamas remains committed to negotiations but will not agree to disarm before the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israel insists on disarmament as part of any deal.

Civilian Toll and Humanitarian Crisis

In addition to those killed in Gaza City’s Zeitoun suburb and central districts, Israeli strikes also hit Khan Younis and Mawasi in southern Gaza, killing nine people, including children, medics said. Gaza’s health ministry reported five more deaths from starvation and malnutrition — including two children — bringing the total to 227 since the war began.

The conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, after Hamas-led militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took 251 hostages, has since claimed more than 61,000 Palestinian lives, according to local health officials.