Israel Strikes Residential Tower in Rafah, Leaving Many Homeless
Israel targeted a major residential tower in Rafah, southern Gaza, escalating its campaign on a region still occupied by over one million displaced Palestinians.
The attack happened Saturday near the Egyptian border, severely damaging the 12-story building. While no casualties were reported, many families were left without homes, and the Israeli military has not commented on the strike.
Residents described a chaotic scene as they rushed to evacuate after a 30-minute warning from Israel. Mohammad Al-Nabrees recounted the panic, with people fleeing in haste, some losing their footing and leaving their possessions behind.
The attack raised concerns among local Fatah officials over a potential full-scale Israeli invasion. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, intensified by a five-month Israeli offensive, has caused nearly 31,000 Palestinian deaths, injured over 72,500, and left many trapped in ruins.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with a 17-year blockade exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The region lies in ruins, with the majority of its 2.3 million residents displaced. The death toll includes children, with three dying from malnutrition and dehydration at Al Shifa Hospital.
The International Committee of the Red Cross condemned the war's brutality and is calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages by Hamas, and humane treatment of Palestinians by Israel.
The conflict started with a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, resulting in 1,200 Israeli deaths. Ceasefire talks seem to be stalling, with a Hamas source indicating no imminent progress and accusing Israel of lacking commitment.
The Israeli military's recent activities in Gaza included arrests, weapons discovery, and the killing of over 30 fighters. The Gaza health ministry reported at least 82 Palestinian fatalities due to Israeli actions in the past day, including 23 in Khan Younis and a fisherman in northern Gaza.