IDF Controls 40% of Gaza City as Ceasefire Talks Advance

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

Jerusalem — The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced Thursday that its ground units have secured control over 40% of Gaza City, intensifying operations ahead of what officials described as a decisive offensive against Hamas strongholds.

Military sources said Israeli troops are advancing deeper into densely populated neighborhoods while conducting heavy air and artillery strikes across the enclave. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported at least 53 fatalities from the latest wave of Israeli bombardments, warning that the toll could rise as rescue efforts continue.

At the diplomatic level, Israeli negotiator Ophir Witkoff confirmed that he held discussions in Paris with Qatari officials regarding a possible ceasefire framework. Qatar, a key mediator in the conflict, has been working alongside international partners to broker an agreement that could pause hostilities and allow humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.

Beyond Gaza, the IDF said it intercepted and shot down two drones launched from Yemen, heightening concerns about a widening regional conflict involving Iranian-backed groups.

Israel insists that Hamas must disarm and release hostages before any long-term truce can be reached, while Hamas has reiterated its demand for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the lifting of border restrictions.

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