The Israeli military reported that they had killed a militant who participated in a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 and was employed by the U.S.-based charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza. World Central Kitchen confirmed the airstrike but stated they were unaware of any employee involved in the attack. The charity announced a pause in operations in Gaza and expressed shock at the incident.
In response to the Israeli airstrike, Hamas did not immediately comment, but the Palestinian news agency reported that three World Central Kitchen employees were killed in an attack. Medics confirmed a total of five casualties. Subsequent strikes in Khan Younis resulted in at least nine Palestinian deaths, including security personnel overseeing aid deliveries.
The Israeli military defended its actions, denying targeting civilians and accusing Hamas of using civilian facilities and human shields, which Hamas denies. At least 32 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes overnight, including those in central Gaza City.
As Hamas leaders traveled to Cairo for ceasefire talks with Egyptian officials, the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey have been involved in efforts to negotiate a truce in Gaza. Hamas seeks a deal to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists on the eradication of Hamas. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread destruction in the enclave.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
