Israeli airstrikes claim 31 lives in Gaza, report medics

Israeli airstrikes killed at least 31 people in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, according to Palestinian medics. Nearly half of the deaths occurred in northern Gaza, where the Israeli army has conducted a month-long campaign aimed at preventing Hamas from regrouping.

Palestinians have described the recent aerial and ground offensives as “ethnic cleansing.” They claim these actions seek to clear two northern towns and a refugee camp of their residents to establish buffer zones. However, Israel denies these accusations, stating it targets Hamas militants who launch attacks from these areas.

The violence intensified with at least 13 Palestinians killed in separate airstrikes on homes in Beit Lahiya and Jabalia, the latter being the largest of Gaza’s eight historic refugee camps. The remaining casualties resulted from airstrikes in Gaza City and southern areas, including Khan Younis, where officials reported eight deaths, including four children.

Health officials from Kamal Adwan Hospital near Beit Lahiya reported an Israeli tank fired on the facility, critically injuring a child who was already hospitalized. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital director, noted the attack occurred after a World Health Organization delegation visited and evacuated some patients.

Abu Safiya emphasized the need for specialized medical teams in northern Gaza hospitals, which have been overwhelmed by casualties. The tank fire damaged the hospital’s water supply, courtyard, and neonatal intensive care unit, exacerbating the already dire situation.

The ongoing conflict continues to escalate, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza grows more severe as the international community calls for restraint and a focus on protecting civilians. Efforts to deliver aid and medical assistance remain challenging amid the violence, highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire and a long-term resolution to the conflict.