Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Claim 54 Lives
At least 54 Palestinians, including women, children, and key officials, were killed on Thursday in a series of Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip. The attacks targeted areas such as Al-Mawasi, Khan Yunis, and various refugee camps, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region. This tragedy highlights the ongoing devastation in Gaza, now in its 15th month of war.
Civilian Casualties in Al-Mawasi
Al-Mawasi, designated as a humanitarian zone for displaced civilians, witnessed one of the deadliest strikes. Medics confirmed the deaths of 11 people, including women and children, in a tent encampment. This attack underscores the lack of safe zones for civilians in Gaza, a sentiment echoed by Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).
“Every day without a ceasefire brings more tragedy,” Lazzarini remarked, emphasizing the dire need for immediate humanitarian relief.
Targeted Strikes on Key Officials
Among the casualties were Mahmoud Salah, director general of Gaza’s police department, and his aide, Hussam Shahwan. The Gaza interior ministry accused Israel of deepening the chaos in the enclave by targeting key figures.
The Israeli military confirmed an intelligence-based strike in Al-Mawasi, claiming Shahwan, identified as the head of Hamas security forces in southern Gaza, was a target. However, no mention was made of Salah’s death.
Read: Gaza Police Chief Killed in Devastating Israeli Strikes
Widespread Destruction Across Gaza
Other airstrikes hit the interior ministry headquarters in Khan Yunis and multiple refugee camps, including Jabalia, Shati, and Maghazi. Medics reported additional casualties in downtown Gaza City and its Zeitoun district, bringing the total fatalities to 54.
Israel’s military defended its actions, stating it followed international law and took measures to minimize civilian harm. It justified its strikes by alleging Hamas fighters were operating from a command and control center embedded within civilian areas.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
The war has claimed the lives of more than 45,500 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced, with much of the territory left in ruins.
In a retaliatory move, Hamas’ ally, Islamic Jihad, launched rockets toward southern Israel. The Israeli military intercepted one projectile near the kibbutz of Holit.
A Region in Ruins
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian toll grows. Displacement, destruction, and loss of life have left Gaza’s population in a dire state. Calls for a ceasefire grow louder, with international organizations urging immediate action to prevent further tragedy.
The situation in Gaza underscores the urgent need for conflict resolution and humanitarian relief to end the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
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