**Deadly Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza Cafe, Claims at Least 20 Lives**

The attack on Al-Baqa Cafeteria raises alarms about escalating violence and growing international pressure on Israel for a ceasefire.

At least 20 Palestinians perished in an Israeli airstrike that struck the Al-Baqa Cafeteria, a popular seafront café in Gaza known for attracting journalists, activists, and local residents, according to emergency services and witnesses. The strike occurred on Monday as part of a broader wave of airstrikes across the region, which has sparked urgent concerns about civilian safety amid ongoing hostilities.

Rescue teams responded promptly, recovering 20 bodies and treating numerous others who sustained injuries from the explosion that created a significant crater at the cafe, a spokesperson for Gaza’s Hamas-run Civil Defense reported. Eyewitness Aziz Al-Afifi, a local cameraman, recounted the dreadful scene, stating, “I ran to the scene. My colleagues were there, people I meet every day. The scene was horrific—bodies, blood, screaming everywhere.”

Videos circulating on social media depicted the moment the missile allegedly launched from an Israeli warplane impacted the café, followed by footage revealing the aftermath with scattered bodies. The Al-Baqa Cafeteria, which offers internet access and workspace along Gaza's coastline, had become a notable hub for the community.

No immediate response has been offered by the Israeli military regarding this deadly strike. The attack followed overnight airstrikes, which resulted in a mass exodus of families seeking safety from targeted neighborhoods. Local reports indicated that casualties included five individuals whose bodies were later found in a strike at Al Shati camp.

The continuous bombardment comes amid heightened international scrutiny, particularly directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces increasing calls to seek a ceasefire amidst the devastation. Recent comments from U.S. President Donald Trump noted Netanyahu's engagement in negotiations with Hamas, hoping for a renewed focus on securing a ceasefire agreement, which remains stalled despite mediation efforts.

A backdrop of increasing violence underscores the urgencies emphasized by humanitarian organizations and global leaders regarding the tragic human costs associated with the conflict. Gaza’s health ministry reports staggering losses, claiming over 56,000 fatalities since the outbreak of the latest violence.

As the situation unfolds, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have issued evacuation orders intended to safeguard civilians ahead of anticipated attacks, yet thousands remain displaced within Gaza. Eyewitness accounts reveal desperate conditions, with families becoming increasingly vulnerable as the conflict continues with no clear end in sight. The ramifications of military actions and humanitarian crises are mounting, demanding urgent attention and action from the international community.