Israeli Strikes Kill 17 in Gaza: Hospitals Report After Soldier Wounded by Gunfire
At least 17 Palestinians have been reported killed due to Israeli strikes in both northern and southern Gaza, according to hospitals. This tragic development follows an incident in which a soldier was wounded by gunfire during operations near the Yellow Line, an area controlled by Israel under the ceasefire agreement with Hamas that has been in effect for three months.
Background of the Incident
– The Israeli military stated that the strikes were a response to gunfire from terrorists in northern Gaza, which seriously injured a soldier.
– The military described the strikes as precise actions by armored units and aircraft in reaction to what it termed a “blatant violation” of the truce.
Casualties Reported
– Hospital officials indicated that six children were among those killed, highlighting the devastating impact on families in the region.
– Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City reported receiving the bodies of 13 individuals, including five children, all of whom died when their tents and homes were targeted in the eastern Zeitoun and Tuffah neighborhoods.
– Nasser hospital in Khan Younis confirmed four fatalities, including one child, resulting from strikes on tents in the Qizan Rashwan area.
Ongoing Tensions
Since the ceasefire took effect on October 10, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of near-daily violations. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry claims that Israeli fire has resulted in at least 529 deaths, while the Israeli military reports that four soldiers have lost their lives due to Palestinian attacks.
Context of the Current Conflict
This escalation follows the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left approximately 1,200 people dead and 251 others taken hostage. In response, Israel initiated a military campaign in Gaza that has resulted in over 71,800 deaths according to the health ministry in the territory.
The situation remains tense as Gazans face ongoing challenges, including navigating the Rafah crossing, which has recently been reopened by Israel for essential needs.
The recent Israeli strikes that killed 17 in Gaza are a somber reminder of the ongoing conflict and its devastating toll on both civilians and soldiers.