An Israeli airstrike in southern Gaza on Sunday killed senior Hamas political leader Salah al-Bardaweel and his wife while they were praying, the Palestinian group said, as residents reported an intensification of Israel’s military offensive.
The strike in Khan Younis was part of a renewed Israeli campaign launched six days ago, following a period of relative calm in the 17-month-long war. At least 30 people were killed in attacks on Rafah and Khan Younis on Sunday, including three municipal workers, health authorities reported.
Explosions reverberated across Gaza as Israeli air and ground forces targeted multiple areas. The death toll in the enclave has now surpassed 50,000 since the war began on October 7, 2023, according to Palestinian health officials.
Mass Displacement and Escalation
In western Rafah, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee ordered civilians to evacuate Tel Al-Sultan, warning of an impending operation against what he described as “terrorist organizations.” Dozens of families fled north to Khan Younis, some using donkey carts and rickshaws to transport their belongings.
Abu Khaled, a displaced resident of Rafah, described the endless cycle of fleeing under fire. “We returned to our ruined homes, hoping to rebuild. Now, for the tenth time, we are fleeing again. When will we ever find peace?” he told Reuters.
Israel says its latest offensive aims to dismantle Hamas’ governing and military infrastructure and secure the release of remaining hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas is eliminated.
Calls for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Crisis
The renewed fighting has drawn international condemnation, with Britain, France, and Germany calling on Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. The blockade has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leaving hundreds of thousands in makeshift shelters.
Hamas accused Israel of violating a ceasefire agreement by refusing to negotiate troop withdrawals. The group said it remains open to mediation efforts, including proposals from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.
The conflict erupted after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli officials. The subsequent Israeli assault has caused widespread destruction in Gaza, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble.