Deadly Gaza City Strike: At Least 20 Killed in Residential Building, Officials Say
Gaza City – A devastating strike on a residential building in the Shujaiya area of Gaza City has reportedly killed at least 20 people, according to the Gaza Civil Defence agency.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, prompting the Israeli military to state they were “looking into” the attack.
Eyewitness accounts and initial reports from the Civil Defence agency indicate the strike hit a multi-story building in a densely populated residential neighborhood.
Rescue workers are still sifting through the rubble, and the death toll is feared to rise as more bodies are recovered.
“We are facing a horrific scene here in Shujaiya,” said a spokesperson for the Gaza Civil Defence agency.
“A building has been completely destroyed, and we have already recovered at least 20 bodies, including women and children. The number is expected to increase as we continue our search.”
The agency attributed the strike to Israeli forces, a claim that is currently being investigated by the Israeli military.
“We are aware of reports regarding an incident in Shujaiya, Gaza City, and are looking into it,” an Israeli military spokesperson stated in response to inquiries.
No further details were immediately provided by the military regarding the nature of their investigation or potential targets in the area.
The Shujaiya neighborhood has been a frequent area of conflict throughout the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, facing previous strikes and military operations.
Residents expressed shock and grief in the aftermath of the latest incident, describing scenes of chaos and devastation.
The strike comes amidst heightened tensions in the region and adds to the already dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, which has been under blockade for years.
International condemnation is likely to follow as details of the incident emerge. Rights groups and international bodies have consistently called for the protection of civilians during military operations and for thorough investigations into any potential violations of international law.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Tolu Adebayo
Reporter/ Social Media Manager
