Deadly Israeli Airstrikes Target Gaza Mosque and Displaced People
In a tragic escalation of violence, Israeli air and artillery bombardments have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip from Saturday evening until the early hours of Sunday morning. The attacks, which focused on a mosque, a school housing displaced individuals, and residential areas, have been described as the most violent in five months, particularly affecting the northern governorate and central Gaza.
On Saturday night, an Israeli airstrike on a mosque near Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah claimed the lives of 18 individuals. Witnesses reported that the mosque was being used as a shelter for displaced people, raising concerns that the casualty numbers could rise further. Additionally, one person was killed and several others injured in an attack on Al-Shafi'i School, which also serves as a refuge for displaced residents in central Gaza City.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amid Ongoing Violence
According to reports from Al Jazeera’s correspondent, the bombardments have resulted in at least 30 deaths and 150 injuries, with over 50 separate airstrikes occurring across the northern Gaza Strip during this period. The violence has forced many citizens to flee towards Gaza City, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Basal noted that rescue crews are struggling to manage the extensive destruction, with many individuals trapped under rubble due to the relentless bombardment and lack of heavy rescue equipment.
The situation has drawn international concern, with many calling attention to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza. Since the onset of violence on October 7, 2023, more than 138,000 Palestinians have been reported as either martyrs or wounded, with a significant number being children and women. The ongoing conflict has led to massive displacement, destruction, and famine, marking one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history.
International Response to the Crisis
Despite widespread condemnation from the international community, Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, reportedly in pursuit of Hamas militants. The Israeli military has justified its actions by claiming to target Hamas positions, yet the attacks have predominantly affected civilian infrastructure and shelters for displaced individuals. The UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice have issued calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and measures to prevent further acts of genocide, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian intervention in the region.
As the situation develops, the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people remain critical, with many organizations calling for increased international support and intervention to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.
