In a devastating escalation of violence, Israeli military operations in Gaza on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 11 Palestinians, including three journalists, two 13-year-old boys, and several civilians, marking one of the deadliest incidents since the October ceasefire agreement. The attacks occurred across multiple locations in the besieged territory, with hospitals confirming the casualties and sparking international concern.
The tragedy unfolded as three Palestinian journalists were killed while documenting displacement camp conditions in the Netzarim area. According to Mohamed Mansour, spokesman for the Egyptian government committee managing the camp, the journalists’ vehicle was struck approximately 5 kilometers from Israeli-controlled territory despite being clearly identified as belonging to the humanitarian committee. Footage from the scene showed the complete destruction of their vehicle, which was visibly charred and emitting smoke.
Among the journalistic casualties was Abdul Raouf Shaat, a frequent contributor to Agence France-Presse. The news agency issued a statement mourning his loss, describing him as ‘much loved’ and ‘kind-hearted,’ while demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death.
Simultaneously, separate incidents claimed the lives of two adolescents. One 13-year-old boy, along with his father and another young man, fell victim to Israeli drone strikes near the Bureij refugee camp. In another heartbreaking case, Moatsem al-Sharafy was shot by troops in Bani Suheila. His mother, Safaa al-Sharafy, told The Associated Press that her son had merely ventured out to gather firewood for cooking, emphasizing his departure with the poignant words: ‘He went out in the morning, hungry. He told me he’d go quickly and come back.’
The Israeli military stated that its actions targeted suspects operating drones that posed threats to troops, though details remain contested. These developments occur against the backdrop of strained ceasefire arrangements between Hamas and Israel, with the United States attempting to advance the peace process’s challenging second phase.
In a related regional escalation, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon injured 19 people, including eight journalists, despite the US and France-brokered ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah that took effect in November 2024. Israel has continued periodic strikes in Lebanon, citing ongoing security concerns.