Gaza, Palestinian Territories — An Israeli airstrike on Monday struck Al-Baqa Cafeteria, a popular beachside gathering spot in western Gaza, resulting in at least 20 deaths and numerous injuries, according to local medical sources and witnesses. The café was known for being a hub for journalists, activists, and residents seeking a communal space by the sea.
Rescue workers reported recovering the bodies of the deceased and treating dozens of injured individuals at Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with thick smoke rising above the shoreline as emergency crews worked tirelessly to search through the severe damage left by the explosion. A local cameraman, Aziz Al-Afifi, recounted the horrifying moment of the blast, which he said sent him running towards the café, only to be met with a scene filled with overturned tables and panicked cries.
Videos shared on social media appeared to show the missile strike, highlighting the devastation and the aftermath. Activists noted that Al-Baqa had become a favored spot for those needing internet access and a place to work amid the ongoing crisis.
This strike followed a series of intense air assaults across Gaza, which have led to significant displacement of families in the area. Witnesses indicated that around five fatalities occurred during earlier bombing raids in the Al Shati refugee camp, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis. The Israeli military had initiated these strikes after issuing evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza as military operations escalated.
Amid these hostilities, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally to pursue a ceasefire. This comes on the heels of attempts to negotiate peace, with U.S. President Donald Trump indicating that discussions for a possible agreement with Hamas are ongoing. However, many on the ground see little change, as reports of violence and casualties continue to emerge.
Residents across Gaza City reported a barrage of airstrikes targeting densely populated neighborhoods, including Shujaiya and Zeitoun. Salah, a local father of five, expressed the turmoil felt by many. “We hear there might be a ceasefire, yet what we see is endless explosions,” he stated, reflecting a widespread sense of despair among those caught in the conflict.
Displaced families described dire conditions as they were forced to leave their homes under the threat of violence. Many chose to move west within Gaza City rather than heed the military’s directive to relocate south, raising concerns about their safety and access to essential resources like food and water. Abeer Talba, a mother of seven, lamented, “This is the seventh time we’ve had to flee. My children are starving, and death feels kinder than this.”
The scope of the humanitarian crisis is escalating, and speculation is rife about the Israeli military’s intentions. Analysts suggest that senior military officials may believe they are nearing a goal in their strategy, while former commanders warn that the conflict could devolve into a prolonged guerrilla war, leading to further loss of life among combatants and civilians alike.
As the situation evolves, Netanyahu’s future actions remain under scrutiny. While his historical approach has favored military solutions, the increasing calls for diplomacy highlight a complex landscape where calls for peace are met with relentless violence, further complicating the path forward for all involved.