Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip on Thursday resulted in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, including three children and two high-ranking officers in the Hamas-run police force, as reported by Palestinian and hospital officials. One strike targeted a tent in Muwasi, a designated humanitarian zone where displaced individuals seek shelter during inclement weather. Another strike in central Gaza claimed the lives of eight Palestinians who were members of local aid convoy security committees.
The Israeli military has not issued an immediate response to these strikes. The conflict was initiated by Hamas-led militants' attack into Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in casualties and abductions. Subsequently, Israel's offensive has led to the deaths of over 45,000 Palestinians in Gaza, with a significant portion being women and children.
In a separate incident, the Israeli military stated that it targeted a senior Hamas security official in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of nine individuals, including three children. The military identified the targeted official as Hossam Shahwan, a senior officer in the Hamas police force, and emphasized Hamas militants' use of civilian cover during attacks.
Meanwhile, in Syria, security forces in Homs are conducting operations to locate militants associated with the former Assad regime. The new de facto authorities, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have established centers for ex-soldiers and militants to surrender their weapons. This follows a recent insurgency that ousted Bashar Assad from power.
Al Jazeera has condemned the Palestinian Authority's decision to prohibit its operations in the occupied West Bank, citing similarities with Israel's actions. The Palestinian Authority accused Al Jazeera of incitement and interference in internal affairs, leading to the suspension of its activities. Al Jazeera denies these allegations and continues to report on events in the region.
