At least 25 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, as reported by the Hamas-run health ministry, marking one of the most deadly days since a ceasefire was initiated five weeks ago.
Among those killed, ten people perished when an Israeli strike targeted the ministry of religious endowments building located in the eastern Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City. Rescuers reported significant damage and the presence of trapped individuals under the rubble.
In response to alleged gunfire directed at Israeli soldiers in the southern city of Khan Younis, the Israeli military claimed it struck 'Hamas terrorist targets', suggesting this was a violation of the ceasefire agreement. However, Hamas rejected this assertion, labeling the strikes as a 'dangerous escalation' that could threaten the ceasefire.
The recent surge in violence coincided with a UN Security Council resolution endorsing a peace plan put forth by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which aims to stabilize Gaza and address ongoing conflict.
Mahmoud Bassal, a spokesman for Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence agency, confirmed that Israeli airstrikes were concentrated in several locations, leading to the destruction of buildings and multiple casualties. This development follows several days of relative calm, indicating a significant shift back to violence.
Visual documentation received from the scene, including images of recovered bodies of young children and reports of numerous injuries, portrays the grave impact of these military actions.
Officials from both sides expressed differing views on the situation, with Hamas insisting it would not disarm unless a Palestinian state is recognized, while Israel emphasized its commitment to safeguarding its borders and citizens against threats.
As tensions escalate and the death toll rises, concerns grow over the potential cessation of diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
