Escalating Crisis in Gaza: Civilian Casualties in Humanitarian Zones

Israeli airstrikes on a humanitarian zone in southern Gaza have left a devastating impact, with scores of casualties including women and children. Palestinian officials report significant losses, while Israel disputes the figures. The incident has further intensified the ongoing conflict, highlighting the dire human cost of the war.

Before dawn on Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes created a massive crater, ignited tents, and trapped Palestinian families under sand in a supposedly safe zone in southern Gaza, resulting in numerous casualties, according to Palestinian officials. Israel stated that the target was a Hamas command center infiltrating the designated 'humanitarian' area in al-Mawasi.

The Gaza civil emergency service estimates at least 65 casualties, but many remain buried under the sand. Israel disputes these figures. Rescuers, working through the night, unearthed bodies and survivors from a crater the size of a small football pitch.

Tents turned to ashes, and vehicles were buried under the sand. Mourners at a local hospital grieved over bodies wrapped in bloodstained shrouds. One survivor, Raed Abu Muammar, recounted the tragedy of losing one daughter while rescuing another and his wife from the sand. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides trading accusations and failing to reach a ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies.)