At least 40 people have been killed and 60 injured in an Israeli attack on a tent encampment for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza, Gaza’s Civil Defence authorities have reported. The attack targeted the al-Mawasi area of Khan Younis, which had become overcrowded with Palestinians seeking shelter in tents after the Israeli army declared the area a “safe zone” during its ground invasions. Rescuers found deep craters at the tent camp and described chaotic scenes with fires burning and Israeli reconnaissance planes circling overhead.
Gaza’s Civil Defence spokesperson called the attack “one of the most heinous massacres” in the ongoing conflict. Israeli authorities claimed they targeted “significant Hamas terrorists” operating within the humanitarian zone, stating that steps were taken to avoid harming civilians. Hamas, the Palestinian group governing Gaza, denied the presence of its fighters in the area and accused Israeli authorities of fabricating lies to justify their actions.
The international community has condemned the attack, with calls for an investigation into the incident. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have demanded accountability for the loss of civilian lives and urged both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians. The escalation of violence in the region has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, the world is watching closely for any developments and hoping for a swift end to the bloodshed.
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