An Israeli airstrike targeting a Hamas compound in the Gazan city of Rafah has resulted in the deaths of two senior Hamas officials and dozens of civilians. The IDF confirmed the strike, claiming it targeted "significant Hamas terrorists," while acknowledging civilian casualties. The incident has drawn condemnation from Palestinian authorities and international observers.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike on a Hamas compound in Rafah has ignited a humanitarian crisis, killing dozens of civilians alongside two top Hamas officials. The raid, confirmed by the IDF, was conducted on intelligence indicating the presence of "significant Hamas terrorists" operating in the area.
According to the IDF, the strike targeted legitimate targets under international law. However, Palestinian health and civil emergency service officials report at least 35 Palestinian fatalities, with the death toll expected to rise as search and rescue efforts continue.
The strike occurred amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas, who have engaged in sporadic rocket attacks and military operations. Hamas' military wing claimed responsibility for a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza, setting off air raid sirens as far as Tel Aviv.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society expressed alarm, stating that the airstrike struck a "humanitarian area" specifically designated as such by Israel. The neighborhood is not included in areas where Israel's military ordered evacuation.
Footage from the scene revealed widespread destruction, with homes and buildings reduced to rubble. The strike ignited a fire that further compounded the devastation.
The UN's top court had recently ordered Israel to halt military operations in Rafah, where approximately half of Gaza's population sought shelter before the Israeli offensive. Tens of thousands remain in the area, while many others have fled.
The war between Israel and Hamas has caused significant casualties. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, around 36,000 Palestinians have been killed, without distinguishing between civilians and fighters. Israel blames Hamas for the civilian casualties, claiming the militants operate in densely populated areas.
Severe hunger and food shortages prevail in Gaza, with approximately 80% of its 2.3 million inhabitants displaced from their homes. UN officials have raised concerns about famine in certain areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the importance of capturing Rafah to eliminate remaining Hamas battalions and secure "total victory" over the militants. Hamas has denied Israeli allegations of a military buildup in Rafah.
The airstrike has elicited strong reactions from the international community. The UN Security Council is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss the escalation of violence. Egypt, playing a mediating role between Israel and Hamas, has condemned the airstrike and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict continue, but the path forward remains uncertain as both sides maintain their respective positions. The civilian toll and humanitarian consequences in Gaza serve as a stark reminder of the need for a peaceful resolution.
