An Israeli airstrike on a crowded café near Gaza City’s port has left at least 41 people dead and over 70 injured, just days ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s scheduled meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The strike, which hit the popular Al-Baqa café on Monday, sparked widespread outrage as videos verified by CNN showed smoke billowing from the site and bodies being carried on stretchers. The café, known as a hotspot for students, journalists, and remote workers seeking internet access during Gaza’s power crisis, was reportedly filled with civilians at the time of the attack.
Dr. Mohammad Abu Silmiya, head of Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital, confirmed the casualties, noting that many of the victims were women, children, and students. He warned that the hospital was overwhelmed and running critically low on ICU beds and anesthetics. “We are treating the wounded on the floor,” he said, adding that the death toll had risen overnight as some of the injured succumbed to their wounds.
Among the dead was freelance journalist Ismail Abu Hatab, bringing the number of media personnel killed in Gaza since October 2023 to 228, according to the Hamas-run Government Media Office.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the strike targeted Hamas operatives in northern Gaza and claimed measures were taken to minimize civilian harm through aerial surveillance. However, the incident remains under internal review, according to an IDF spokesperson.
The deadly attack comes at a tense moment in Israeli politics, as internal divisions deepen over the direction of the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu is expected to meet with President Trump in Washington on July 7 to discuss potential ceasefire options and broader regional security concerns.
Sources familiar with high-level talks in Israel say Netanyahu is weighing several options, including a possible ceasefire deal. However, far-right cabinet members such as Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich are pressuring the government to intensify military operations in Gaza. Ben Gvir reportedly demanded a “decisive move,” warning that delays were weakening Israel’s position.
In contrast, other officials like Aryeh Deri have shown support for a potential hostage deal that could lead to a ceasefire and bring an end to the fighting.
Netanyahu, speaking on Sunday, hinted at new opportunities for negotiations following recent Israeli operations in Iran. “Many doors have opened,” he said, expressing hope that a breakthrough could lead to the release of hostages still held in Gaza.
As Netanyahu prepares for his Washington visit, the international community watches closely, with the airstrike on Al-Baqa café adding new urgency to the calls for a ceasefire and protection of civilian lives.
