Gaza – Palestine: At least 12 Palestinians were killed and others injured in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting densely populated areas in the Gaza Strip. These airstrikes included a school sheltering displaced Palestinians, according to medics and health officials.
Details of the Airstrikes
Clashes were reported in the Maghazi refugee camp east of Gaza prior to the strikes. The clashes were between Palestinians and an Israel-backed armed faction attempting to attack the school. This prompted Israeli aircraft to fire two missiles at the area. Earlier strikes also killed one Palestinian and injured a child while they were riding a motorcycle. In addition, a third Palestinian was killed by gunfire targeting a car in the city center.
Local Reactions
Witnesses said residents attempted to defend their homes and property. However, Israeli attacks directly targeted civilians. No official comment was issued by Hamas. The group accuses those cooperating with Israel of violating the fragile ceasefire that began in October 2023.
Impact on Peace Plan
Hamas continues to refuse to disarm, posing an obstacle to implementing the next phase of the peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump for Gaza. Gaza’s Ministry of Health estimates that around 700 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire began. Meanwhile, Israel says four of its soldiers were killed during the same period.
Humanitarian Situation
Repeated military operations have led to widespread famine in the territory. This has turned much of the area into rubble and displaced the majority of the population. As a result, the humanitarian situation has worsened further and this hinders reconstruction efforts and the return to normal daily life.
The health and security sectors continue to monitor and document violations. They also coordinate with international bodies to ensure civilian protection and provide urgent assistance to those affected.
