Nuseirat Refugee Camp Attacks: Ongoing Concerns Over Civilian Casualties in Gaza

Recent attacks in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza have raised significant concerns regarding civilian casualties and the safety of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Multiple incidents over the past several months, including a large-scale operation in June 2024, have resulted in a high number of Palestinian deaths and injuries, prompting international scrutiny.

The June 8, 2024 Operation and its Aftermath

On June 8, 2024, the Israeli military conducted an operation within the Nuseirat refugee camp with the stated objective of rescuing four Israeli hostages held by Hamas. During this operation, at least 276 Palestinians were killed and over 698 injured, according to the Gaza Health Ministry and Palestinian health officials [1]. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) acknowledged a lower number of Palestinian deaths, reporting fewer than 100 [1]. The four rescued hostages were identified as Noa Argamani, Shlomi Ziv, Almog Meir Jan, and Andrey Kozlov [1]. One Yamam officer was killed during the operation [1]. The operation involved intense air, sea, and ground attacks, leading to significant civilian casualties [1]. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell described the events as a “bloodbath” [1].

Continued Strikes and Rising Death Tolls

The Nuseirat refugee camp has continued to be a site of conflict and civilian casualties in the months following the June operation. According to a report from the UN Human Rights Office, between September 24 and September 28, 2025, at least 12 incidents in the An Nuseirat and Az Zawaida areas resulted in the deaths of at least 89 Palestinians, most of whom appear to be civilians, including many children and women [3]. Specific incidents included a strike on IDP tents near A Ahly Club on September 24, killing 13 Palestinians, including 7 women and girls [3], and a strike on a crowded market in An Nuseirat Camp on September 27, reportedly killing at least 17 Palestinians, including children [3].

Eyewitness Accounts and Humanitarian Impact

The impact of these attacks on the civilian population is devastating. An MSF doctor living in Nuseirat refugee camp described the horrific attacks by Israeli forces on June 8 [2], highlighting the immense suffering and challenges faced by residents. The UN Human Rights Office has expressed dismay at the destruction of Gaza City and the subsequent killing of Palestinians seeking shelter in Middle Gaza, particularly in and around An Nuseirat Camp [3].

Key Takeaways

• The Nuseirat refugee camp has been the site of intense conflict and significant civilian casualties.
• The June 8, 2024 operation resulted in a high number of Palestinian deaths and injuries, with differing casualty figures reported by the Gaza Health Ministry and the IDF.
• Continued strikes in the following months have further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the area.
• International organizations have expressed concern over the safety of IDPs and the targeting of civilians.