Hamas naval commander killed in strike by Israel in northern Gaza area
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, the 2023 Israeli offensive against the Gaza Strip has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian toll. According to data from the Gaza Health Ministry and multiple reports, over **57,000 Palestinians** have been killed, the majority of whom are women and children.
The offensive, which began in early October 2023 as retaliation for Hamas' attack on Israeli territory, has also claimed the lives of around 882 Israeli soldiers and injured over 6,000. Notably, 31 Israeli soldiers were killed by friendly fire incidents during ground operations in Gaza.
One of the most devastating incidents during this offensive was the bombing of Al-Baqa café in Gaza City. This well-known establishment, frequented daily by journalists, students, and civilians seeking a resting place due to its location near the sea and its internet connection, was a popular gathering place.
On Monday, the café was struck by a 230kg MK-82 bomb, a powerful and indiscriminate weapon that generates a massive shockwave and scatters shrapnel over a wide area. The bombing resulted in the death of at least 33 people, including artist Amina al Salmi, boxer Malak Masleh, footballer Mustafa Abu Amira, and several members of Hamas. Journalist Ismail Abu Hatab was killed in the attack, while reporter Bayan Abu Sultan was injured.
The Al-Baqa café bombing was one of the many incidents that have occurred as part of Israel's offensive against the Gaza Strip since October 2023. Other mass casualty events include attacks on hospitals, refugee camps, and schools, such as the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital explosion and numerous airstrikes on densely populated civilian areas.
The ongoing blockade has caused severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel in Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and raising famine risks. International legal actions, including ICC arrest warrants for Israeli leaders and genocide cases at the International Court of Justice, have been initiated due to alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
As the conflict continues, it is crucial to remember the human cost of these events and to strive for a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and dignity of all those affected.
The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, which includes the 2023 Israeli offensive against the Gaza Strip, is not only limited to war-and-conflicts but extends into politics, general-news, and crime-and-justice. The bombing of Al-Baqa café in Gaza City, resulting in the death of several civilians including journalists and members of Hamas, is one of the many incidents that have raised questions about war crimes and crimes against humanity.
