Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged a “tragic mistake” in an airstrike on the southern Gaza city of Rafah that resulted in a deadly fire at a camp for displaced Palestinians. The attack killed at least 45 people, including women and children, according to local officials. The incident has intensified international criticism of Israel’s actions in its ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Netanyahu did not provide specifics about the error but stated that an investigation is underway. Initially, the Israeli military claimed the strike targeted a Hamas compound, killing two senior militants. However, as the aftermath became clear, the military announced an inquiry into the civilian casualties.
The strike, one of the deadliest in the conflict, has pushed the Palestinian death toll over 36,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Despite efforts to minimize civilian harm, Netanyahu expressed regret over the incident in an address to Israel’s parliament.
Rescuers described the aftermath as devastating, with reports of pulling children and adults from the fire. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the deaths included 12 women, eight children, and three elderly individuals, with three bodies unidentifiable due to severe burns.
In related events, Egypt reported the death of one of its soldiers in an exchange of fire in the Rafah area. Investigations are ongoing. The U.N. Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the situation.
Rafah, housing over a million displaced Palestinians, has seen significant displacement and suffering due to the conflict. The strike has drawn condemnation from global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who called for an immediate ceasefire and respect for international law.
The U.S. National Security Council expressed heartbreak over the incident, while Germany’s Foreign Office demanded a swift investigation and better protection for civilians.
Qatar, a key mediator, warned that the Rafah strike could hinder ceasefire talks. The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes. Israel maintains it adheres to international law, despite facing scrutiny and criticism over its military actions and treatment of Palestinians.
The conflict was sparked by a Hamas attack on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and the taking of 250 hostages. The ongoing war has led to severe humanitarian crises in Gaza, with widespread displacement and reports of famine.
