An Israeli airstrike in central Gaza reportedly killed 18 people on Sunday morning, according to Palestinian medical authorities. The strike targeted a mosque in Deir al-Balah that was serving as a shelter for displaced individuals, near the al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. The hospital released a statement confirming the casualties.
Hospital records indicate that all 18 deceased individuals were men, with two others suffering critical injuries from the airstrike. The incident has raised further concerns about the safety of civilians in the ongoing conflict.
According to the Hamas-controlled Palestinian Health Ministry, the death toll in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has risen to nearly 42,000. The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties and humanitarian challenges in the region.
Hamas reported on Saturday that an Israeli strike on a refugee camp in northern Lebanon resulted in the death of Hamas official Saeed Atallah Ali and his family. Additionally, the group confirmed that another member of its military wing was killed in an Israeli strike in Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley.
Israel launched ground operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah last week, resulting in the deaths of nine Israeli soldiers in the ongoing conflict in southern Lebanon. The military actions mark a significant escalation in hostilities between the two sides.
Nearly 2,000 Hezbollah fighters and civilians have reportedly died in Israel’s strikes on the militant group’s positions in southern Lebanon. The escalation in violence has led to significant casualties on both sides.
Since Hamas’ cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of 250 others, Israel and Hezbollah have engaged in daily exchanges of fire across the Lebanon border. In response to the Hamas attack, Israel declared war on the militant group in the Gaza Strip.
In anticipation of the anniversary of the October 7 attack, Israel has placed its forces on high alert. This move reflects concerns over potential escalations in violence as the date approaches.
“We are prepared with increased forces in anticipation for this day,” said military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari on Saturday, referring to potential “attacks on the home front.” The statement underscores Israel’s heightened readiness amid ongoing tensions.
