An Israeli airstrike on Monday killed seven people at a café near the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, according to Palestinian medics, raising the death toll from Israeli strikes since Sunday night to at least 37.
Earlier on Monday, Israeli tanks entered the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, causing panic as they opened fire, with residents and displaced families scrambling to escape. Health officials at Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat reported that 20 people were killed in air and ground strikes, including some in a tent encampment.
Zaik Mohammad, a resident near the targeted area, said the tank incursion was unexpected. “Some people couldn’t leave and remained trapped inside their homes, appealing to be allowed out, while others rushed out with whatever they could carry as they fled,” Mohammad, 25, told Reuters via a chat app. There was no comment from Israel regarding the Monday incidents.
With the conflict now in its 14th month, Israel’s operations are concentrated in the northern and central regions of Gaza. Israel states its goal is to prevent Hamas militants from regrouping. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been ordered to evacuate, increasing fears they may never return. Ceasefire efforts stalled after mediator Qatar announced a suspension until both sides showed more willingness to negotiate.
Israeli airstrikes also claimed lives in Gaza City and Beit Lahiya. At Kamal Adwan Hospital, three medical workers were wounded by Israeli drone fire. On Saturday, Israel targeted a command center in Gaza City, killing senior Islamic Jihad commander Mohammad Abu Skhail, along with five others.
Israeli forces have besieged three hospitals near Jabalia, despite pleas from hospital officials who refuse to leave due to food, medical, and fuel shortages. Israel accuses Hamas of using civilians for military purposes, which Hamas denies.
The Israeli army stated it has expanded a humanitarian zone, allowing tents, food, and medical supplies into Gaza. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in around 1,200 Israeli and 43,500 Palestinian deaths, according to official counts.