Israeli airstrikes killed at least 30 Palestinians, including children, in Gaza on Saturday, marking one of the deadliest days since the October ceasefire. The strikes targeted residential areas, a tent camp, and a police station, according to Palestinian health officials. Israel said the attacks responded to Hamas violating the truce by deploying armed men near Rafah.
Ceasefire Under Strain
The strikes occurred as the Rafah crossing with Egypt was set to reopen under the U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan. Mediators Egypt and Qatar condemned the attacks, warning they threatened the fragile truce. Hamas accused Israel of violating the agreement, while Israel claimed it targeted militant infrastructure.
Humanitarian Impact
The casualties included women and children from multiple families. Hospitals reported strikes on a tent camp in Khan Younis, killing seven, and a police station in Gaza City, killing 14. The majority of Gaza’s medical infrastructure has been destroyed, making the crossing’s reopening critical for medical aid.
Military Justifications
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated the strikes targeted Hamas and Islamic Jihad commanders, weapons caches, and manufacturing sites. The IDF cited an incident where armed men emerged from a tunnel in Rafah as a breach of the ceasefire. Hamas did not confirm if its members were hit.
Political Implications
The ceasefire’s second phase involves demilitarizing Gaza and establishing a new government. The strikes raise concerns about sustaining the truce amid ongoing hostilities. Over 500 people have been killed since the ceasefire began, according to Gaza health officials.