In brief
In a series of air strikes across northern and central Gaza, at least 22 Palestinians have been reported dead, including a senior Hamas commander. The Israeli military stated the strikes were in retaliation for an attack by an 'armed terrorist'. This incident has brought the already fragile ceasefire agreement into question, with accusations flying between Hamas and Israel regarding violations. Over 310 Palestinians have died in strikes since the ceasefire began, marking a dramatic escalation in violence in the region.
At least 22 Palestinians have been killed in a series of Israeli air strikes across northern and central Gaza, Hamas medical and civil defence officials have said.
They reported that five sites were hit, including residential homes, with the death of a senior Hamas commander among the casualties.
The Israeli military contended that it had targeted Hamas in retaliation for an incident earlier on Saturday, claiming an armed terrorist fired at soldiers after crossing the Strip's designated control line. Hamas has denied these accusations, stating that Israel is violating the ceasefire.
Since the ceasefire was implemented six weeks ago, over 310 Palestinians have died in Israeli strikes, according to Gaza's health ministry.
The recent strikes focused on Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and the Nuseirat refugee camp. Specific attacks included targeting the Abbas junction in Gaza City, where five were killed, and another incident at a mosque in Deir al-Balah that resulted in three deaths.
The Israeli government later stated that the bombing was a response to Hamas violating the ceasefire and attacking IDF soldiers.
Following the attacks, Hamas accused Israel of attempting to impose new territorial realities and urged international mediators to intervene.
This escalation comes after the initial offensive by Israel launched in response to the Hamas-led attack that resulted in significant casualties and hostages taken earlier in October 2023.
