Breaking News: Deadly Israeli Air Strike in Gaza City
Introduction
On Saturday morning, a devastating Israeli air strike hit a Gaza City shelter, killing around 100 people, according to authorities in the Hamas-run enclave. The strike occurred during dawn prayers, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake.
The Attack
The Israeli military confirmed that it struck the Al Taba’een school in the Daraj Tuffah neighborhood, claiming that it was targeting a "Hamas command and control center" within which militants were taking cover and planning attacks. Eyewitnesses reported that the strike happened during dawn prayers, with video footage from the scene showing masses of bodies in a makeshift hall.
Death Toll and Casualties
If confirmed, the death toll would make it one of the deadliest Israeli attacks of the entire Gaza war, now entering its 11th month. Local authorities in Gaza City called it a "massacre", as emergency personnel worked to locate and evacuate the injured from the rubble. The strike comes as the US, Egypt, and Qatar made a renewed push for a deal in Gaza that would halt the fighting and return the Israeli hostages home.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict began when Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, killing 1200 people, according to official Israeli figures. The attack sparked a fierce response from Israel, which has been carrying out air strikes and ground operations in the Gaza Strip. The fighting has resulted in the deaths of more than 40,000 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the shattered enclave.
Escalating Tensions
Over the past month, the Israeli military has stepped up its attacks on schools across the Gaza Strip, arguing that Hamas militants were using civilian shelters as operational hubs and the displaced people there as "human shields". The strike comes as Israel remains on edge awaiting a likely attack from Iran and the Lebanon-based Hizbollah movement in retaliation for two recent assassinations targeting senior militant leaders.
International Reactions
The US, Egypt, and Qatar have issued a statement calling for both sides to "resume urgent discussions in Doha or Cairo to close remaining gaps" and "commence implementation of the deal without further delay". US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that "escalation is in no party’s interest" and reiterated the urgent need to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages, allow a surge of humanitarian assistance, and create the conditions for broader regional stability.
Conclusion
The recent Israeli air strike in Gaza City is a devastating reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the need for urgent action to prevent further violence. The international community must come together to support a ceasefire and find a lasting solution to the crisis in Gaza.
FAQs
Q: How many people were killed in the Israeli air strike?
A: According to authorities in the Hamas-run enclave, around 100 people were killed in the strike.
Q: What was the target of the Israeli air strike?
A: The Israeli military confirmed that it struck a "Hamas command and control center" within which militants were taking cover and planning attacks.
Q: How many Palestinians have been killed in the conflict?
A: According to health authorities in the shattered enclave, more than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict.
Q: What is the current situation in Gaza?
A: The situation in Gaza is critical, with ongoing violence and destruction resulting in widespread displacement and humanitarian crisis.
Q: What is the international community doing to address the crisis?
A: The US, Egypt, and Qatar have issued a statement calling for a ceasefire and are working to facilitate negotiations between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict.
Q: What is the US doing to address the crisis?
A: The US administration is racing to de-escalate tensions and avoid a full-blown war, while simultaneously moving additional military assets to the region to protect Israel.
Author: www.ft.com
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