The ongoing conflict in Gaza took a tragic turn on Saturday night, with an Israeli airstrike on the northern town of Beit Lahiya leaving at least 87 Palestinians dead or missing under the rubble. The attack, which came just two weeks into a major Israeli military operation in the area, has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Gaza’s health ministry reported that rescue operations were hampered by communication disruptions and the ongoing Israeli military activity, making it difficult for emergency responders to reach those trapped under the debris. The ministry stated that more than 40 people were injured in the airstrike, adding to the growing number of casualties in the conflict.
The Israeli military is investigating reports of the incident, which has resulted in one of the highest casualty tolls in months. Initially, the military questioned the accuracy of the Hamas media office’s report of 73 casualties, citing the type of munitions used in the strike against a Hamas target.
International condemnation has been swift and sharp. Tor Wennesland, the U.N. Middle East peace envoy, took to X to express his horror at the unfolding scenes in Gaza. He called for an end to the attacks on civilians and demanded the immediate release of hostages, while emphasizing the need to protect civilians and stop the displacement of Palestinians.
The Israeli operation in the area around Beit Lahiya and Jabalia has been marked by intense fighting, with Israeli troops backed by tanks aiming to eliminate remaining Hamas fighters. Evacuation orders directing residents southward have fueled fears that the operation aims to clear Palestinians from the northern part of Gaza to secure Israeli control after the conflict. Israel has vehemently denied these claims, asserting that its actions are solely focused on protecting civilians and separating them from Hamas fighters.
This latest incident comes amidst reports of a significant death toll in Gaza, with Palestinian health ministry figures indicating more than 42,600 Palestinians killed during Israel’s ground offensive. Thousands are believed to be buried under the rubble, and the majority of the Gaza Strip’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced.
The fighting has also severely impacted the region’s health infrastructure, with reports of severe shortages in food, fuel, and medical supplies. Hospitals in Gaza are struggling to cope with the overwhelming influx of patients and the lack of resources, while facing the constant threat of Israeli airstrikes.
This incident highlights the volatile nature of the conflict in Gaza and its devastating impact on the civilian population. The call for a ceasefire and an immediate end to the violence grows louder with each passing day, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza reaches an alarming point.