At least 40 people were killed and 60 others injured in an Israeli airstrike on a tent camp for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza. The attack occurred in Khan Younis, an area that has seen a significant influx of displaced families seeking refuge from ongoing violence.
According to local sources, the airstrike hit the tent camp in the early hours of the morning, catching many of its inhabitants off guard. The camp, which was hastily set up to accommodate those fleeing other parts of Gaza, was densely populated with civilians, including women and children.
Medical teams on the ground described a scene of chaos as they scrambled to treat the injured and recover bodies from the debris. Hospitals in the area, already overwhelmed by the influx of casualties from the ongoing conflict, are struggling to cope with the latest surge in patients.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not yet issued a statement regarding the specific incident, though they have maintained that their military operations in Gaza are aimed at neutralizing threats posed by militant groups. However, the attack has drawn widespread condemnation from humanitarian organizations and international leaders, who are calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians.
The strike comes amid an intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has seen heavy bombardment on both sides. The violence has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with thousands of families displaced and critical infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, severely damaged.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the rising civilian death toll, urging both sides to respect international law and prioritize the safety of non-combatants. Efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, and the situation on the ground remains dire.
As the conflict drags on, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with basic necessities such as food, water, and medical supplies becoming increasingly scarce. The latest attack on the tent camp in Khan Younis underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict and the protection of innocent lives caught in the crossfire.