An Israeli airstrike targeted a tent camp in Rafah, Gaza, resulting in the deaths of dozens of civilians.
The strike, which hit an area where displaced Palestinians were seeking shelter, sparked a fire that swept through the camp, leaving behind scenes of horror and tragedy.
Local officials reported that at least 45 people, mostly women and children, lost their lives in the Tal al-Sultan neighborhood, with fears that the death toll could rise as more casualties are discovered amidst the flames.
Images and videos shared on social media depicted the chaos and anguish as residents scrambled to escape the inferno, with some carrying severely burned bodies and others fleeing for their lives.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the incident in the Knesset, referring to it as “a tragic incident” and promising a thorough investigation into what he termed as “a tragic mistake.”
Initial statements from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that the airstrike targeted two senior Hamas leaders responsible for organizing attacks, but acknowledged the reports of civilian casualties and pledged to investigate the matter.
The strike drew swift condemnation from world leaders, with the United Nations’ top court recently ordering Israel to halt its offensive in Gaza. Qatar and Egypt, both involved in ceasefire efforts, condemned the attack, warning of its potential to derail peace negotiations.
