CAIRO (Reuters) – At least 29 Palestinians, including children, were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting a multi-story residential building in the Shejaia neighborhood of Gaza City, according to local health authorities. The strike, which occurred on Wednesday, also injured dozens more, with many still believed to be trapped beneath the rubble. Several nearby homes were also damaged in the attack.
The Israeli military confirmed the airstrike, stating it targeted a senior Hamas fighter involved in planning and executing attacks in northern Gaza. However, the military did not disclose the individual’s identity. It also claimed that multiple precautionary measures were taken to minimize civilian casualties ahead of the strike.
Despite these claims, the human toll continues to rise. Health officials reported that an additional nine Palestinians were killed in separate Israeli strikes across the enclave, bringing Wednesday’s total death toll to at least 38.
The attack comes after the Israeli military issued evacuation orders to residents of Shejaia last week, signaling plans for operations against militants in the area. Since Israel resumed its offensive on March 18, following a two-month truce, nearly 1,500 Palestinians have been killed, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.
Israel has been creating what it calls a “security zone” along the edges of Gaza, prompting fears among residents of a potential permanent displacement. Meanwhile, Hamas and Islamic Jihad’s armed wings have resumed rocket fire into Israel.
Ceasefire negotiations remain at a standstill, with both sides blaming each other for the lack of progress. Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. continue to push for an agreement.
The war began in October 2023 after Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took around 250 hostages. Since then, more than 50,800 Palestinians have been reported killed.
