Deadly Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza Safe Zone: 90 Dead, 300 Injured
Massive Strike Targets Al-Mawasi, a Designated Safe Area
An Israeli airstrike slammed into the densely packed Al-Mawasi district near Khan Younis in southern Gaza on Saturday, a zone previously declared a humanitarian safe zone. Palestinian health officials in the Hamas-run enclave say the attack has killed at least 90 people and injured nearly 300.
Israel claims the strike targeted Mohammed Deif, Hamas’s elusive military boss, known for evading countless assassination attempts over two decades. The military says the aim was to eliminate Deif, who is accused of masterminding the brutal October 7 attack killing around 1,200 in southern Israel.
Hamas Denies Deif’s Death, Calls Attack a “Horrific Massacre”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted there’s “no absolute certainty” if Deif or fellow Hamas commander Rafa Salama were killed. Meanwhile, Hamas insists Deif was not in the hit zone and condemned the strike as a cover-up for civilian bloodshed.
The Gaza Health Ministry warned many victims remain trapped under rubble, making rescue efforts grim and urgent. The devastating bombing comes amid tense cease-fire talks and risks sinking hopes for peace.
International Fallout: Egypt Slams Israel, Calls for Cease-Fire
Egypt, a key mediator in truce negotiations, condemned the Israeli strike, branding it a “major setback” that complicates cease-fire talks. Cairo’s Foreign Ministry blasted what it called the “shameful silence” from world powers as violence rages on.
Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. are pushing a three-stage cease-fire plan involving a gradual hostage release and phased Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, aiming to end the conflict. But fresh bloodshed casts doubt on any quick resolution.
Devastating Toll: Gaza’s Death and Injury Figures Soar
Since Hamas’ October 7 assault ignited the war, Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 38,400 dead and more than 88,000 wounded. These staggering figures include both civilians and fighters, underscoring the brutal cost of the conflict.
This latest airstrike adds to the mounting humanitarian crisis in Gaza, hampering international peace efforts and raising fears of further bloodshed.
