Israeli airstrikes killed at least 27 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The strikes marked the deadliest day since the ceasefire came into effect last month.
Rescue teams reported casualties in Gaza City and Khan Younis, where homes, public buildings, and crowded streets came under fire. Witnesses said families rushed to safety as explosions destroyed residential areas.
Israel’s military stated that it targeted “Hamas terrorist positions” after gunmen allegedly opened fire near soldiers in Khan Younis. Officials claimed the attack violated the ceasefire agreement. Hamas rejected the accusation, calling the strikes a “dangerous escalation” that undermines the fragile truce.
The Civil Defence in Gaza confirmed that several buildings collapsed, trapping civilians under rubble. Local media published images of children among the dead, intensifying outrage across the territory.
The escalation followed weeks of relative calm under the ceasefire brokered in October. However, tensions have remained high as both sides accused each other of undermining the agreement.
International observers expressed concern that the violence could derail ongoing peace efforts. Human rights groups urged restraint, warning that renewed conflict would worsen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Hamas-run health ministry reported that more than 69,500 Palestinians have died since the war began in October 2023, including hundreds during the ceasefire period. Israel’s military confirmed three of its soldiers have been killed since the truce started.
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