WSN 024 reports that at least 17 Palestinians were killed early Friday as Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple sites across Gaza. Health officials confirmed that women and children are among the dead, with dozens more injured.
What Happened
The airstrikes began before dawn and continued for several hours, hitting residential buildings and infrastructure in Gaza City and surrounding areas. Witnesses described massive explosions that lit up the sky and caused widespread panic among civilians.
The Israeli military stated that the attacks targeted Hamas and Islamic Jihad facilities in response to ongoing rocket fire into southern Israel. However, many of the strikes hit areas densely populated with civilians, causing significant casualties and damage.
Casualties and Damage
According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, the 17 people killed include at least five children and four women. Over 60 people were wounded, some critically. Rescue teams worked through the morning to search for survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.
Humanitarian Impact
Hospitals in Gaza, already overwhelmed by weeks of conflict, reported shortages of medicine and fuel. Aid organizations expressed alarm over the deteriorating humanitarian situation and called for urgent international assistance.
International Reactions
The United Nations and several human rights groups have condemned the strikes and urged all parties to exercise restraint and protect civilians. Diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire are ongoing.
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Source: WSN 024