RAFAH, Gaza Strip – An Israeli airstrike in the southernmost city of Rafah claimed the lives of at least nine individuals, including six children, according to hospital officials on Saturday. The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza has led to increased tensions in the region, particularly between Israel and Iran in recent weeks, with focus now turning to the city of Rafah where many Palestinians are seeking refuge amid the conflict.
Relatives grieved over the loss of loved ones at al-Najjar hospital as they mourned the tragic deaths of multiple family members in the airstrike. The devastating toll included the lives of Abdel-Fattah Sobhi Radwan, his wife Najlaa Ahmed Aweidah, and their three children, as confirmed by Radwan’s brother-in-law, Ahmed Barhoum. Tragically, Barhoum also lost his wife, Rawan Radwan, and their young daughter Alaa in the attack.
The situation in Rafah remains tense as Israel plans a potential ground offensive in pursuit of Hamas militants believed to be hiding in the area. Despite international calls for restraint, including from the United States, the conflict shows no signs of easing as families are forced to flee their homes in fear of further strikes.
Amidst the chaos, some Palestinians in Rafah received evacuation alerts from the Israeli army, leading to tense moments as airstrikes continued to hit residential areas in the city. The violence has also spread to other parts of Gaza, with reports of casualties in central Gaza’s urban refugee camp of Bureji from additional Israeli airstrikes.
The conflict, which began with an October raid by Hamas into southern Israel, has claimed the lives of thousands, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. The toll on both sides continues to rise, fueling frustration and calls for peace among Israelis and Palestinians alike. As tensions escalate, neighboring countries are also drawn into the conflict, with Iran, Hezbollah, and Houthi rebels showing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza through various forms of attacks.
As the crisis unfolds, casualties mount in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank, further fueling animosity and fueling calls for justice and peace. The cycle of violence and retaliation shows no signs of abating, leaving many in the region in a state of despair and uncertainty as they grapple with the harsh realities of war and conflict.