Israeli Airstrike Claims Two Lives Near Gaza University Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions
An Israeli air strike resulted in the deaths of at least two Palestinians in Gaza City on Sunday, according to local health officials. This incident marks the deadliest occurrence in Gaza since Israel and the United States initiated their military campaign against Iran one week ago. The strike targeted a vehicle in close proximity to Al-Azhar University, situated in the western sector of Gaza City.
Details of the Attack and Casualty Reports
Medics confirmed that the two individuals were traveling in a car near the university campus when the strike occurred. Their identities have not been immediately disclosed, and several other people in the vicinity sustained injuries from the attack. The Israeli military has not provided an immediate response to requests for comment regarding this specific strike.
Such attacks have seen a decline since the commencement of the U.S.-Israeli offensive against Iran, although Israeli forces have reportedly killed several Palestinians over the past week. The Gaza health ministry has reported that at least 640 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since October, while Israel states that four soldiers have been killed by militants in Gaza during the same timeframe.
Background of Ceasefire Violations and Broader Conflict
Israel and Hamas previously agreed to a U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire deal that took effect last October, but violence has persisted on a near-daily basis. Both sides have consistently accused each other of violating the truce agreement. Gaza has endured devastation from more than two years of Israeli military operations, with local health authorities estimating over 72,000 Palestinian fatalities and widespread destruction across the enclave.
Escalating Violence in the West Bank
In a separate development, three Palestinians were killed during a violent confrontation with settlers in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Sunday, bringing the total number of Palestinians killed in recent days to six. This surge in violence occurs as much of Israel and the international community focus attention on the regional war with Iran.
The Israeli military stated that it responded to reports of Israeli settlers attacking Palestinians near Khirbet Abu Falah, east of Ramallah. Two Palestinians died from gunfire, and a third succumbed to suffocation, likely caused by tear gas. The victims included cousins Fare' Hamayel and Thaer Hamayel, along with Mohammad Murra, all of whom were buried in a joint funeral ceremony.
