Israeli Airstrike Claims Lives in Gaza's Humanitarian Zone

An Israeli airstrike targeted Mohammed Deif, a top Hamas military leader, in a designated humanitarian area in Gaza, killing at least 71 Palestinians and injuring 289. The attack has heightened tensions, overwhelming local hospitals and raising concerns about ongoing ceasefire negotiations.

An Israeli airstrike targeted Mohammed Deif, the military chief of Hamas, in a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza on Saturday, leading to the deaths of at least 71 Palestinians and injuring 289, according to Gaza's health ministry. The strike occurred in Al-Mawasi, an area where the Israeli military had encouraged civilians to relocate.

The Israeli military issued a statement claiming the strike also aimed at Rafa Salama, the commander of Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade. The enclave's health ministry called the attack the deadliest in weeks. A military official revealed that the area was not a tent complex but a Hamas operational compound guarded by several militants.

As ceasefire talks continue in Doha and Cairo, the impact of the strike remains uncertain. Many of the wounded were rushed to Nasser Hospital, which has been overwhelmed by the escalation and shortage of medical supplies. Statements from Hamas and local witnesses have condemned the attack as a grave escalation, questioning Israel's commitment to peace.

(With inputs from agencies.)