Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed six people early Saturday, including two children and an Al Jazeera cameraman, according to Palestinian health officials. The strikes targeted a residential building in Gaza City, causing widespread damage and igniting renewed condemnation of the ongoing conflict.
Victims and Response
The dead included sisters Zeina Safadi and Lana Safadi, aged 6 and 8, who were killed when an overnight Israeli airstrike damaged their home. Their funeral drew mourners carrying their bodies through the streets of Gaza City. The Al Jazeera cameraman, identified as Ahmad al-Sharif, was also killed in the same strike, according to the network. Al Jazeera condemned the attack and called for an independent investigation.
Palestinian medical officials reported that at least 15 others were wounded in the strike, some critically. The Israeli military said it was targeting a Hamas command post but did not immediately comment on civilian casualties.
Broader Context
The strikes come amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Israel-Hamas war entering its ninth month. Since October 2023, over 37,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which is run by Hamas. The United Nations and human rights groups have repeatedly called for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians.
In a separate incident, Israeli forces arrested a man in the West Bank suspected of planning an attack, the military said. No further details were provided.
International Reaction
The United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, expressed deep concern over the civilian toll. “The killing of children and journalists is unacceptable and must stop,” he said in a statement. The White House also called for restraint, urging all parties to protect civilian lives.
Al Jazeera’s bureau chief in Gaza, Wael al-Dahdouh, said the network holds Israel responsible for the deaths. “Our colleague was doing his duty, documenting the suffering of the Palestinian people,” he said. “This is a war crime.”
Impact on Journalism
The Committee to Protect Journalists reported that at least 95 journalists have been killed in the conflict since October 2023, making it one of the deadliest periods for the media. Al Jazeera has repeatedly called for international protection for journalists in Gaza.
