An Israeli tank, this Tuesday near the border with Gaza. Amir Cohen | REUTERS
Most of the victims are women and children. There are also dozens of injured and missing following the bombing in a residential neighborhood
November 21, 2024 . Updated at 9.25am
At least 88 people died this Wednesday in attacks carried out by the Israeli army in the north of the Gaza Strip66 of them in an attack on a residential neighborhood located near the Kamal Adwan hospital, in the Gaza city of Beit Lahia, according to Europa Press.
Local sources consulted by the Palestinian newspaper Palestine they indicated it most of the victims are women and children and that, moreover, there are dozens injured and missing following the bombing.
The director of the aforementioned hospital, Hosan abu Safiya, specified that around 200 people were at the site of the attack, including dead, injured and lost under the rubble. «Our medical staff at the hospital are recovering the injured and treating them because there are no ambulances. “The health system is collapsing in northern Gaza, we cannot provide anything and all our appeals are in vain,” he said.
According to Europa Press, however, 22 deaths were recorded, including ten children, in an attack on a residential building in the Seij Radwan district, in the north-west of Gaza City.
In October 2023, the Israeli army began a bloody offensive against the Gaza Strip following the Hamas attacks, which caused 1,200 deaths and around 250 hostages. Since then, Gaza authorities have recorded the deaths of nearly 44,000 Palestinians, as well as more than 785 Palestinians killed at the hands of Israeli security forces and in settler attacks in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
News in expansion phase
How does the civilian toll from conflicts in the Gaza Strip affect international humanitarian efforts?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Sarah Klein, Middle East Conflict Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Klein. The recent attacks in the Gaza Strip have been devastating, with reports indicating that at least 88 people have died, primarily women and children. Can you help us understand the impact of these events on the civilian population?
Dr. Sarah Klein (SK): Thank you for having me. The human cost of the recent attacks is heartbreaking. When we see that most of the casualties are women and children, it speaks volumes about the vulnerability of civilians in conflict zones. This isn’t just a matter of numbers; each statistic represents a family shattered, lives lost, and futures altered.
TNE: Local sources have mentioned dozens of injured and missing individuals too. What kind of challenges do medical facilities face during such crises?
SK: Hospitals in conflict areas face immense challenges. First and foremost, they are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of casualties. In this incident, the director of Kamal Adwan hospital indicated around 200 people were affected at the site of the attack—this includes the deceased, injured, and those trapped under the rubble. Medical staff must work quickly and efficiently, but they often lack sufficient resources, both in terms of medical supplies and personnel. In some cases, medical staff themselves become victims.
TNE: That’s an incredibly dire situation. The international community sometimes debates the effectiveness of aid during such conflicts. How crucial is foreign assistance at this point?
SK: Foreign assistance can be a lifeline, providing essential resources like medical supplies, food, and shelter. However, the delivery of this aid often faces significant logistical hurdles due to ongoing violence, blockades, and political complexities. It’s crucial that the international community not only pledges support but also acts in a way that ensures aid reaches those who need it most.
TNE: This situation also raises questions about accountability. What role does international law play when it comes to actions like these?
SK: International law, including the Geneva Conventions, is supposed to protect civilians in conflict zones. Any deliberate attacks against civilians or indiscriminate bombing of residential areas are violations of these laws. However, holding violators accountable is a significant challenge. This often requires political will from global powers and can be complicated by geopolitical interests.
TNE: In light of this ongoing tragedy, how can the international community respond effectively without escalating tensions further?
SK: Effective response requires a balanced approach that prioritizes humanitarian aid and a push for dialog. De-escalation strategies are vital. The community must strive for mediating peace talks while delivering aid. Supporting grassroots organizations, local peace initiatives, and advocacy for human rights can play a role in fostering long-term stability in the region.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Klein. These insights shed important light on a heavily nuanced and evolving situation. As events develop, we appreciate you sharing your expertise with our readers.
SK: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep these conversations alive, as awareness is the first step towards meaningful change.