Gaza: A devastating Israeli airstrike has left more than 50 Palestinians dead or unaccounted for after it targeted a residential building in the Jabalia al-Balad area of northern Gaza, according to a statement from the Civil Defence on Friday. The strike leveled a four-storey building, triggering what emergency crews on the ground have described as a “horrific massacre.”
The incident occurred in Jabalia, a densely populated refugee camp district, where the Israeli military has intensified operations in recent days. Civil Defence teams were able to recover four bodies from the wreckage and pulled six survivors out alive. However, hopes are dimming for over 50 others still believed to be trapped beneath the rubble, as rescue efforts have been paralyzed by the unavailability of heavy equipment crucial for lifting the debris.
The absence of necessary rescue machinery has forced search operations to a standstill, despite urgent calls for international assistance. Local emergency workers are reportedly relying on bare hands and basic tools, severely hampering efforts to reach those who may still be alive. The scene has been described by first responders as chaotic and traumatic, with families of the victims watching helplessly as time runs out.
This latest strike comes amid escalating violence in the region, with Israeli forces continuing military actions in northern Gaza following Hamas rocket attacks. The Jabalia camp, home to tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians, has been one of the hardest-hit areas since the conflict reignited. Humanitarian groups have warned that the lack of fuel, equipment, and access for aid workers is worsening an already catastrophic situation.
The background to this escalation includes months of growing tensions, culminating in renewed cross-border violence. Israeli officials have stated their operations are targeted at dismantling Hamas infrastructure, but repeated strikes on densely populated civilian areas have drawn international condemnation and raised concerns about potential violations of international law.
