We have received breaking news regarding a recent strike in Rafah by the Israeli military, resulting in the deaths of two senior Hamas officials. The Gaza Ministry of Health reported that 35 individuals were killed in the strike, which targeted a camp of displaced people. The strike occurred in the northwestern part of Rafah, an area not previously designated for evacuation by the Israeli military.
According to the Gaza government's media office, the strike claimed the lives of more than 35 individuals and left many others injured. The area hit was supposed to be a safe zone, as instructed by the Israeli military for residents to relocate from other operational areas. Disturbing images obtained from the scene show fires within the camp, with bodies and injured individuals being rescued from burning tents.
The Gaza Ministry of Health has highlighted the lack of hospital capacity to handle the significant number of casualties and severe injuries resulting from the strike. The Israeli military has confirmed the airstrike in Rafah, stating that two senior Hamas officials, including the commander of Hamas leadership in the West Bank, were killed. They acknowledged reports of civilian casualties and indicated that the incident is under review.
Reports from the Gaza Ministry of Health reveal that a majority of the casualties in the camp were women and children. The camp consisted of makeshift shelters for displaced individuals who had been relocated multiple times during the ongoing conflict. Palestinian officials have expressed concerns that the death toll may increase as more casualties are reported.
Following the strike, Hamas launched rockets towards Israel, targeting Tel Aviv for the first time since late January. The Israeli military justified the strike in Rafah by citing Hamas' presence in the area and suspicions of hostages being held there. The military described the operation as precise, aiming to address security threats posed by Hamas.
The ongoing military strategy employed by Israel has faced criticism, including from the Biden administration, which emphasizes the need for a comprehensive political plan alongside military actions. Despite the prolonged duration of the conflict, Hamas continues to launch rockets, prompting scrutiny of Israel's approach to resolving the situation.
