📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
An Israeli attack on the south of the Gaza Strip on July 13 killed 71 people and injured scores, as reported by the Health Ministry in Gaza. The attack targeted the head of Hamas’ military wing, Mohammed Deif, who has been a key figure in previous conflicts between Israel and Hamas. Deif, along with another top Hamas official, Rafa Salama, was said to be the focus of the strike, although it remains unclear if they were killed.
The Gaza Health Ministry stated that at least 289 others were injured in the attack, with many taken to Nasser Hospital for treatment. Gaza has been a site of ongoing conflict, with thousands displaced from their homes and living in precarious conditions in makeshift tents. The coastal strip has been a focal point of clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas militants.
Israel launched its campaign in Gaza following a previous attack by Hamas militants that resulted in numerous casualties and abductions. The conflict has taken a heavy toll on the civilian population, with thousands killed and wounded.
Cease-fire efforts have been ongoing, with international mediators pushing for a resolution to the conflict. The U.S.-backed proposal calls for a phased cease-fire and hostage release plan. However, the recent Israeli attack in southern Gaza has added complexity to the negotiation process.
The strike, which killed scores of civilians, drew condemnation from neighboring countries and raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The ongoing violence has led to widespread displacement and suffering among the Palestinian population, with many living in dire conditions.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging for a peaceful resolution to the hostilities. The toll on civilians, especially in Gaza, highlights the urgent need for a lasting cease-fire and a comprehensive peace agreement in the region.