Israeli Airstrikes Kill 16 in Gaza Strip, Including Women and Children

Israeli Airstrikes Kill 16 in Gaza, Including Women and Children

Palestinian officials have reported that Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip on Monday resulted in the deaths of 16 people, including five women and four children. The strikes targeted residential areas, causing significant casualties and destruction.

One strike in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza flattened a home, killing at least 10 people, including women and children. The Awda Hospital confirmed the toll and reported 13 others wounded in the attack. Another strike in Gaza City claimed the lives of six people, including a woman and two children.

Israel maintains that it only targets militants and accuses Hamas and other armed groups of using civilians as shields by operating in residential areas. The ongoing conflict has taken a heavy toll on the civilian population, with thousands killed and many more displaced.

The United Nations’ top humanitarian official for Gaza, Sigrid Kaag, emphasized the urgent need to protect civilians in the region. She highlighted the challenges faced by humanitarian operations due to various obstacles, including access denials and security concerns.

In a separate development, Israeli protesters gathered in Tel Aviv following reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was considering firing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The potential dismissal has sparked controversy and raised concerns among the public.

Meanwhile, a White House envoy met with Israeli leaders to address escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaging in hostilities that have displaced thousands of civilians and raised fears of a wider conflict.

In a related development, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar praised Yemen’s Houthi rebels for a recent missile attack on Israel, signaling solidarity among various groups opposed to Israeli actions. The conflict continues to draw in regional actors and escalate tensions in the Middle East.

The situation in the West Bank also remains tense, with reports of Israeli settlers storming a school and clashing with Palestinians. The incident underscores the ongoing violence and instability in the region, fueled by longstanding political and territorial disputes.

Amidst these challenges, efforts to address humanitarian needs, such as a polio vaccination campaign in Gaza, are underway. However, the conflict and its impact on infrastructure and services continue to hinder relief efforts, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.