The Gaza health ministry has reported a tragic incident in northern Gaza, where 77 people have been killed or are missing following an air strike. The strike targeted a five-story building in Beit Lahiya early on Tuesday morning, causing extensive damage to the structure.
Video footage from the scene shows the building nearly destroyed, with numerous bodies wrapped in shrouds lying on the ground or being transported away. The Gaza Civil Defense has mentioned that the building was being used as a shelter by many displaced families.
Reports indicate that Kamal Adwan Hospital, where the wounded were taken, is facing a critical shortage of medical staff and supplies. Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital's director, has urgently requested a safe corridor for medical teams to reach the hospital to provide necessary care, especially for children in the intensive care unit requiring amputations.
The Hamas-run government media office in Gaza has stated that a significant number of the victims in Beit Lahiya were women and children, highlighting the devastating impact of the air strike on civilians. However, due to communication challenges in northern Gaza, confirming the exact number of casualties has been difficult.
Efforts are underway to reach out to the Israel Defense Forces for clarification on the target of the strike. The Israeli military recently intensified its ground and air operations in northern Gaza, leading to heightened tensions and escalating violence in the region.
