Gaza’s civil defense agency reported on Friday that recent Israeli strikes have resulted in 50 fatalities in the Palestinian territory since midnight.
“The number of martyrs from Israeli shelling focused on civilian homes in the northern Gaza Strip has unfortunately risen to 50… Our teams are still working in these areas,” said civil defense official Mohammed al-Mughayyir.
Israeli airstrikes claimed at least 20 lives in Gaza on Friday morning. An Associated Press (AP) journalist counted the casualties at the Indonesian hospital in northern Gaza, where many were taken. Survivors reported that more people are likely trapped under the rubble.
The attacks, widespread across northern Gaza, coincide with U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf states, although he did not stop in Israel.
Gaza has been under an Israeli blockade for three months now. On Thursday, Trump expressed a desire to transform the devastated territory into a “freedom zone.”
His comments brought to mind earlier plans he suggested in February, proposing that the U.S. take control of Gaza to rebuild it as a luxurious leisure and business center. This idea raised concerns about the potential permanent displacement of many of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, leading to a global outcry.
The recent strike has continued for several hours into Friday morning, prompting urgent evacuations from the Jabariya Refugee Camp. Media sources indicate that a prior attack had already tragically resulted in over 130 fatalities, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the latest incidents.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently reiterated his commitment to intensifying military operations in the Gaza Strip, declaring the goal of dismantling the Hamas extremist group.
In statements from earlier this week, Netanyahu indicated that Israeli forces would soon enter Gaza with significant force, aiming to complete the mission of destroying Hamas. It remains uncertain if the recent strikes signify the onset of this planned operation.
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Hamas accused Netanyahu of obstructing mediation efforts for hostage releases and ceasefire agreements through his ongoing military actions in Gaza. They labeled him a “war criminal” for deliberately escalating the situation, demonstrating disregard for the safety of prisoners.
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