Headline: Israel Launches Deadly Attacks in Gaza; Palestinian Death Toll Mounts
News Article:
MINSK 28 Palestinians Killed in Latest Israeli Strikes on Gaza; Many Civilian Targets Hit
GAZA CITY – At least 28 Palestinians have been killed in fresh Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip Wednesday and Thursday, with many civilian targets hit, the Palestinian health ministry said.
The latest Israeli aggression follows a brief ceasefire, and brings the Palestinian death toll since the conflict erupted on Oct. 7 to over 4,600, with more than half being civilians.
On Thursday, Palestinians staged angry protests across the Middle East, denouncing Israel’s strikes, which have ravaged the densely populated Gaza Strip, leaving thousands homeless.
The protests come as the UN and regional powers push for a lasting ceasefire, with Egypt and Qatar given the crucial task of mediating between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian group that rules Gaza.
In Israel, the military announced a new round of airstrikes, saying they were targeting Hamas’ militant infrastructure across Gaza. However, many civilian sites, including apartment buildings and a refugee camp, were also devastated.
Gaza Health Ministry Stats (Up to Thursday):
- 2,324 Palestinians killed, including:
- 1,155 civilians
- 275 children
- 11,785 injured, including:
- 1,600 children
Israeli Strikes in Latest Wave:
- Wednesday:
- 9 Palestinians killed, including:
- 7 in airstrikes on northern Gaza
- 2 in a tank attack in Khan Younis, southern Gaza
- 9 Palestinians killed, including:
- Thursday:
- 19 Palestinians killed, including:
- 14 in an airstrike on a refugee camp in Gaza City
- 5 in a tank attack on a Hamas tunnel network in Khan Younis
- 19 Palestinians killed, including:
- Total Palestinian deaths since Oct. 7: 4,632
Other Developments:
- Protests: Thousands of Palestinians and sympathetic protesters across the Middle East condemned Israel’s actions and demanded international intervention to halt the violence.
- UN & Regional Efforts: UN and regional powers continue to push for a lasting ceasefire, with Egypt and Qatar leading mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas.
- Hamas’ Claims: Hamas’ armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for firing barrages of rockets into Israel, saying they targeted Israeli military bases and settlements.
- Israeli Response: Israel’s military said it was targeting Hamas’ militant infrastructure, rejecting accusations of disproportionate use of force.
