A senior Hamas commander, Rafa Salama, was killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that Salama was a key figure in the October 7 attack and a close associate of a top Hamas commander. The IDF claimed that Salama’s death would hinder Hamas’ military capabilities.
However, Hamas disputed this, calling the attack a false justification. The strike also resulted in casualties, with at least 90 Palestinians killed and 289 injured. The fate of another targeted Hamas leader, Mohammed Deif, remains unknown.
The attack on a displaced people’s camp sparked chaos in Gaza, overwhelming medical facilities. Dr. Mohammed Abu Rayya described the scene as “hell”, with many civilian casualties, including women and children. A Hamas official criticized Israel for escalating tensions and hindering ceasefire negotiations.
The situation in Gaza remains tense as efforts to reach a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire of ongoing conflict.