PALESTINIAN health officials in Gaza reported that over 91 people have been killed in Israeli airstrikes, as Israel launched a military operation targeting a senior Hamas commander. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they had initiated strikes against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip, but did not immediately comment on specific casualty figures.
The operation, which began in the early hours of Saturday, reportedly aims to eliminate a high-ranking member of Hamas’ military wing. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a brief address: “We are taking decisive action against those who threaten the security of our citizens.”
The Gaza’s Health Ministry said that hospitals in the enclave were struggling to cope with the influx of casualties. “We fear the death toll may rise further as rescue operations continue,” the spokesperson said.
International calls for de-escalation have begun, with the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging both sides to “exercise maximum restraint and take immediate steps to reduce tensions.”
As the situation develops, regional neighbours and world powers are closely monitoring events, with concerns about a potential wider conflict in the area.
