Israeli airstrikes on the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip have resulted in the tragic deaths of at least five people, including two young children. Palestinian hospital officials confirmed the casualties, with the children identified as Sham Najjar, 6, and Jamal Nabahan, 8.
In addition to the airstrikes in Rafah, four individuals lost their lives in central Gaza due to Israeli tank shelling. Family members revealed that the victims were attempting to move to northern Gaza, where Israel’s military is preventing residents from returning to their homes.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a devastating toll on the Palestinian population, with over 34,000 individuals losing their lives, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The war has left Gaza’s largest cities in ruins, forcing approximately 80% of the territory’s population to seek refuge in other parts of the enclave.
Despite calls for restraint from various parties, including the United States, Israel has continued its offensive in Gaza. The Israeli military has vowed to expand its ground operations against Hamas in Rafah, near the border with Egypt.
The conflict shows no signs of abating, with Hamas indicating a willingness to agree to a truce with Israel if certain conditions are met. However, the prospect of a lasting peace remains uncertain as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.