Dozens killed, injured in Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza

By Anadolu staff

GAZA, Palestine (AA) - Dozens of people were killed and injured in Israeli airstrikes early Friday morning on six homes in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Interior Ministry said.

The ministry said in a statement on Telegram that six residences were destroyed in the airstrikes and "nine people were killed and more than 60 others were injured," all of whom were shifted to Nasser Medical Hospital.

However, the Palestinian news agency "Wafa" reported that at least 21 people were killed and 79 others were injured, mostly children and women, in Israeli airstrikes.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.