On July 13, 2024, Israeli forces launched a devastating attack on the Al-Mawasi area near Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, resulting in at least 71 Palestinian deaths and 289 injuries, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The Israeli military claimed the strike targeted Mohammed Deif, the head of Hamas’ military wing, and Rafa Salama, another top Hamas official. However, Hamas spokesperson denied these reports, stating that only civilians were killed in the attack.The attack hit an area designated as a ‘safe zone’ by Israel, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians had sought refuge. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that the majority of the dead and wounded were civilians, including children and women. Local hospitals, including Nasser Hospital, were overwhelmed with the influx of casualties and faced shortages of medical supplies.This latest assault is part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023. Since then, the conflict has resulted in over 38,345 Palestinian deaths and more than 88,295 injuries. The violence has displaced over 80% of Gaza’s population, with most now living in squalid tent camps and facing severe food insecurity.The international community and human rights groups have strongly condemned the attack, raising concerns about the protection of civilians in conflict zones. Israeli Defense Minister Gallant called an emergency meeting with high-ranking military and Shin Bet officials in response to the incident.As the conflict intensifies, humanitarian aid convoys carrying medical supplies and necessities have begun to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing. However, the ongoing violence continues to impede relief efforts and exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Key points
- Israeli attack on Al-Mawasi area near Khan Yunis killed at least 71 Palestinians and injured 289.
- The attack targeted a ‘safe zone’ housing displaced Palestinians, raising concerns about civilian protection.
- The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 38,345 Palestinian deaths and 88,295 injuries since October 7, 2023.
- Humanitarian aid is struggling to reach Gaza amid ongoing violence and destruction.
Contradictions👾Israeli military claims the attack targeted Hamas leaders Mohammed Deif and Rafa Salama, while Hamas denies this, stating only civilians were killed.
👾The exact number of casualties varies slightly between sources, with some reporting over 100 deaths.
