Children among dozens killed as Israel intensifies Gaza strikes

In a deadly escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 125 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip early Sunday, including children asleep in makeshift tents. One of the deadliest attacks occurred in the al-Mawasi area of Khan Younis, where Israeli warplanes bombed a camp sheltering displaced families, resulting in 36 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to medical sources cited by Al Jazeera.

Verified footage from the scene captured the devastating aftermath, showing charred bodies and numerous wounded individuals being transported to a field hospital and the Nasser Medical Complex.

Medical reports also confirmed that 42 of the 125 fatalities occurred in northern Gaza, an area that has seen relentless bombardment. Among those killed were three journalists. The number of casualties has surged dramatically in recent days as Israel prepares to intensify its ground operations in Gaza, defying widespread international condemnation.

Hamas described the Khan Younis attack as a “brutal crime” and a clear violation of international law, accusing the United States of enabling Israel’s actions by providing political and military support. The group stressed that the responsibility for the rising civilian toll lies with Washington.

UN Secretary General António Guterres voiced concern over Israel’s ongoing and planned military escalation, urging restraint. Meanwhile, Israeli and Hamas representatives resumed indirect negotiations in Qatar. However, Israel emphasized that talks were continuing without conditions, even as humanitarian aid remains blocked from entering Gaza since March 2, despite warnings of imminent famine.

On the political front, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to withdraw from the Doha talks and avoid any agreement with Hamas.

Israeli strikes have also systematically disabled several hospitals across the enclave. Gaza’s Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that the Indonesian Hospital in the north has been under siege since dawn, worsening the crisis and spreading fear among patients and medical staff, who now face extreme shortages in resources to treat the wounded.