Israeli Airstrikes Kill 28 Palestinians, Escalating Gaza Conflict

Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 28 Palestinians, marking a significant escalation in violence following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the strikes targeted Hamas positions in response to “several terrorists” firing on Israeli soldiers in Khan Younis, located in southern Gaza. The IDF characterized this action as a necessary response and claimed that none of its forces were injured during the incident.

In contrast, Hamas condemned the airstrikes, labeling them as “a dangerous escalation.” The group dismissed the IDF’s explanation, accusing Israel of attempting to “justify its ongoing crimes and violations.” This incident represents the third major escalation since the ceasefire was established in October, each time following an attack on Israeli forces.

The most recent violence came shortly after the UN Security Council endorsed a plan from US President Donald Trump aimed at fostering a more sustainable peace and reconstruction efforts in the war-torn enclave. The previous escalations on October 19 and 28 resulted in the deaths of approximately 150 Palestinians and three Israeli soldiers.

Health officials in Gaza reported that among those killed in Wednesday’s airstrikes were nine children, with at least 77 others sustaining injuries. Footage from Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City depicted a chaotic scene, with numerous individuals crowding around incoming ambulances. Distressing images showed mourners alongside body bags, including those of three children, as they grieved the loss of their loved ones.

The deadliest strike occurred in the Zaytun area of eastern Gaza, where ten individuals, including a woman and a child, lost their lives, according to the Gaza Civil Defense. Another strike targeted civilians west of Khan Younis, specifically at a location associated with the UNRWA club, which serves Palestinian refugees.

The conflict’s latest developments stem from a series of violent confrontations that began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages. Since that time, the Gaza health ministry reports that more than 69,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed.

As part of the initial phase of the US-brokered ceasefire framework, Hamas had agreed to release all remaining hostages in Gaza, both living and deceased, while Israel committed to withdrawing from certain areas and releasing some Palestinian prisoners. To date, Hamas has released all living hostages and the bodies of all but three deceased individuals.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides entrenched in their positions, raising concerns about the potential for further violence. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, calling for restraint and a renewed commitment to peace efforts.