At least nine individuals have lost their lives and several others sustained injuries following an Israeli airstrike in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, marking the deadliest episode since a ceasefire commenced in January, according to the enclave’s Government Media Office. The Israeli military claim the strike targeted six individuals they identified as “terrorists” who were allegedly involved in drone operations.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that one of those killed had links to the Hamas-led attack on October 7. The health ministry in Gaza corroborated the reports of nine fatalities and noted that many injured individuals were treated at Gaza’s Indonesian Hospital, including some in critical condition. Among the deceased were three members of a media team documenting humanitarian efforts in the area, as reported by the Palestinian Journalists’ Protection Centre.
Hamas condemned the airstrike, labelling it a “horrific massacre” against unarmed civilians and humanitarian workers. Ismail Thawabta, Director General of Hamas’ Government Media Office, stated that the attack amounted to a clear breach of international humanitarian law.
The IDF reiterated their stance, asserting that the airstrike targeted “terrorists” purportedly using civilians as shields, but there were conflicting eyewitness accounts. One witness described a desperate scene where he extinguished flames and pulled bodies from the rubble, while another man shared his grief over his 17-year-old son, who was attending a local camp reportedly unaffiliated with Hamas or any resistance.
While operations by Israeli forces in Gaza have persisted since the ceasefire began, the IDF claims these actions were necessary due to ongoing threats, despite a noted decrease in casualties. The attack comes in the wake of a new U.S. proposal for a month-long ceasefire extension in exchange for the release of some hostages held by Hamas.
This proposal reportedly includes lifting the blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza, which has been in place for nearly two weeks. Hamas has indicated its willingness to negotiate the extension; it has also shown openness to release a soldier and the remains of hostages in exchange for concessions. The overall situation remains tense, with humanitarian concerns and ongoing conflict dynamics complicating efforts for a lasting peace.