Air strikes in Northern Gaza claim dozens, including women and children

English , Middle East - مشرق وسطٰی , Snippets , / Sunday, October 20th, 2024

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RKI Web Desk!
Israeli air strikes in northern Gaza have resulted in heavy casualties, with Palestinian health officials reporting at least 87 people killed or missing in the town of Beit Lahia. Many victims remain trapped beneath debris following the strikes late Saturday night and early Sunday morning. The total number of fatalities in Gaza since Friday night now exceeds 100, officials say.

Hamas claimed that the strikes targeted residential areas, with women and children among the dead. The Israeli military, however, disputed the reported figures, stating its initial assessment found the death toll to be overstated and that its operation aimed at a Hamas target.

The intensified offensive comes days after Israel announced the killing of Yahya Sinwar, a senior Hamas leader. Meanwhile, Tor Wennesland, the UN’s special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, described the unfolding situation in Gaza as “horrifying” and stressed the need to end the conflict. “The nightmare in Gaza is intensifying,” he said, urging the release of hostages held by Hamas and an immediate cessation of attacks on civilians and forced displacement.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with mounting casualties and growing international calls for a ceasefire.