Israeli Strikes Claim 65 Lives in Gaza

Reports indicate that Israeli tanks conducted raids in eastern and central Khan Younis, leading to at least 40 fatalities and numerous injuries. In Gaza City, at least 22 Palestinians lost their lives, with one Israeli airstrike on a school killing 17 individuals. Another strike targeted the Al-Amal Orphan Society, which also serves as a refuge for displaced persons, resulting in the deaths of at least five more.

Further strikes included an attack on a school in Nuseirat in central Gaza, killing three and injuring 15. The Israeli military stated the strike was aimed at Hamas militants believed to be operating from a command center within the facility, which had previously been the 'Nuseirat Girls' School. The military accused Hamas of using civilian infrastructure for military operations, a claim Hamas has denied.

This escalation follows a series of Iranian missile attacks on Israel, which were purportedly a retaliation for Israel's operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. In response, Israel vowed to deliver a "painful response" to its adversaries.

The conflict has intensified over the past year, particularly after Hamas launched a significant attack on Israel on October 7, which Israel claims resulted in 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages taken. This initiated a war that has devastated Gaza, displacing most of its 2.3 million residents and leading to over 41,600 deaths, according to Gaza health authorities.