Israeli forces caused the deaths of 11 Palestinians, including children and journalists, in separate incidents in Gaza on Wednesday, according to local medics. The violence occurred despite a three-month ceasefire in the conflict-ridden region.
Palestinian health officials reported that three Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli airstrike while on assignment to film a displaced persons camp in central Gaza. In another tragic incident, medics stated that three individuals, including a 10-year-old boy, lost their lives due to Israeli tank shelling in central Gaza. Additionally, two others, including a 13-year-old boy, were fatally shot in Khan Younis in the southern part of Gaza.
The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed that a total of 11 Palestinians were killed in various Israeli attacks that day. Responding to the incident involving the journalists, the Israeli military claimed its troops targeted suspects operating a drone linked to Hamas in central Gaza.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the killings, stating that the journalists were documenting the plight of civilians in displacement camps as part of a humanitarian mission. Emad Abu Shawish, a freelance journalist present during the strike, expressed shock at the targeting of the journalists without warning.
The Israeli military did not immediately comment on other incidents. The Committee to Protect Journalists revealed that since the conflict began in October 2023, over 200 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate reported a higher toll of over 260 killed.
Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for ceasefire violations, further complicating peace efforts. The ceasefire has seen a partial Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, but recent weeks have witnessed an expansion of Israeli forces, resulting in more displacement of Palestinian families.
The U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal remains stalled in its initial phase, with uncertainties surrounding the implementation of subsequent phases involving disarmament, further Israeli withdrawals, and reconstruction efforts. President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative aims to facilitate Gaza’s redevelopment, but challenges persist in advancing the peace process.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem highlighted obstacles in moving to the next phase, citing issues related to the release of the last Israeli hostage’s remains. The region has witnessed significant casualties since the ceasefire, with over 460 Palestinians and three Israeli soldiers reported dead in clashes.
The conflict in Gaza escalated in October 2023 following a Hamas-led cross-border attack, leading to extensive casualties on both sides. Israel’s military operations have resulted in a high number of Palestinian fatalities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.