Fresh Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip have killed at least five Palestinians, including three charity workers at a community kitchen in Deir el-Balah, according to local health officials and multiple international reports.
The strike in central Gaza targeted a community food distribution site near Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir el-Balah. Journalists on the ground reported that all three victims were aid workers involved in providing meals to displaced civilians amid worsening humanitarian conditions.
Additional Israeli attacks were reported in:
- Khan Younis
- Beit Lahiya
Medical officials in Gaza said the strikes form part of continued Israeli military operations despite the ceasefire framework announced last year. According to Gaza health authorities, at least 871 Palestinians have reportedly been killed since the ceasefire period began.
Humanitarian Concerns Growing
The deaths of aid and charity workers are again raising international concerns about the safety of humanitarian operations inside Gaza. Aid groups have repeatedly warned that food kitchens, medical centers, and relief convoys remain vulnerable in active combat zones.
International humanitarian organizations say Gaza continues to face:
- Severe food shortages
- Displacement crises
- Medical supply collapse
- Risks to aid workers and volunteers
The latest incident revives memories of earlier deadly strikes involving humanitarian staff, including the 2024 attack that killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Deir el-Balah, an incident Israel later described as a “grave mistake.”
Israel’s Position
According to Reuters, the Israeli military said it had targeted individuals it described as militants posing immediate threats. Israeli officials also confirmed recent operations against senior Hamas figures as military activity intensifies again across parts of Gaza.
Israel maintains that its operations are aimed at dismantling Hamas infrastructure following the October 2023 attacks, while humanitarian organizations continue urging stronger protections for civilians and aid personnel.
Broader Context
The war in Gaza began after the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people and led to hostage seizures, according to Israeli authorities. Since then, Gaza health officials say more than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed during Israel’s military campaign.
International agencies and rights groups continue calling for:
- Expanded humanitarian access
- Protection of aid workers
- Long-term ceasefire negotiations
- Increased food and medical assistance
Confirmed Key Facts
- At least five Palestinians were killed in new Israeli strikes across Gaza.
- Three victims were community kitchen charity workers in Deir el-Balah.
- Additional strikes hit Khan Younis and Beit Lahiya.
- Gaza health officials say 871 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire period began.
- Israel says it targeted militants and senior Hamas figures