Intense Israeli tank fire and airstrikes targeted Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip on Friday night, as part of Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hamas militants. The assault followed reports of nearly 200 casualties within a 24-hour period. Airstrikes also hit the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, with Israeli forces preparing for a potential advance into the main southern city. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant mentioned reaching Hamas command centers and arms depots, while the military claimed the destruction of a tunnel complex in the residence of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
After Hamas militants attacked Israeli towns, resulting in casualties and hostages, Israeli forces have extensively damaged the Gaza Strip in their efforts to eliminate the Islamist group. The densely populated area, home to 2.3 million people, has seen widespread displacement, with many forced into makeshift shelters.
In the reported 24-hour period, Gaza health authorities confirmed 187 Palestinian casualties, bringing the overall toll to 21,507. A Palestinian journalist working for Al-Quds TV and his family were killed in an airstrike in the Nuseirat camp. The Committee to Protect Journalists expressed concern over the targeting of journalists by the Israeli military, citing a high death toll and a pattern of such incidents.
South Africa sought an urgent order from the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention in its Gaza crackdown. The U.S. called for Israel to scale down its operations, emphasizing targeted actions against Hamas leaders. Israel defended itself, blaming Hamas for using civilians as shields.
Israel facilitated the entry of vaccines to Gaza, aiming to inoculate nearly 1.4 million people against various diseases. However, Gaza’s reliance on external supplies remains challenging, and international agencies highlight the need for increased humanitarian access.
The situation has drawn international concern, with calls for de-escalation and humanitarian support, while Israel maintains its stance on self-defense.