Israeli Strike Kills Palestinians Near Gaza City Mosque Amid Ceasefire Violations

GAZA — An Israeli drone strike near Al-Katiba Mosque in western Gaza City has resulted in the deaths of three Palestinians, including a paramedic, and injuries to several others, highlighting ongoing violence despite a ceasefire agreement. The incident underscores the fragile security situation in the Gaza Strip.

Strike Details and Casualties

The strike occurred near Al-Katiba Mosque, an area sheltering displaced families in tents and temporary shelters. Medical sources reported that the victims were near civilian tents and a field medical point when the missile struck. Among those killed was Abdel Hosni Hamdouna, a paramedic with the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Several others were injured by shrapnel in the crowded area.

Timing and Witness Accounts

The strike took place shortly before iftar, the sunset meal during Ramadan, as residents prepared to break their daily fast. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as civilians rushed to provide aid to the wounded. “We heard the drone buzzing above us for several minutes,” one resident of a nearby displacement camp stated. “Then there was a loud explosion. People were screaming and running. When we reached the scene, we saw bodies on the ground.”

Conflicting Accounts and Ceasefire Violations

The Israeli military claims the strike targeted individuals preparing an attack against Israeli forces, but has not provided supporting evidence. Palestinian officials maintain that those killed were civilians. This incident marks another violation of the ceasefire, which took effect on October 10, 2025. Since the ceasefire began, violations involving shelling and gunfire have resulted in the deaths of 641 Palestinians and injuries to 1,711 others.

Broader Context of the Conflict

The current situation follows a two-year conflict that began on October 8, 2023, resulting in over 72,000 Palestinian deaths, nearly 172,000 injuries, and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza. The UN estimates reconstruction costs at approximately $70 billion. The territory’s health system is severely strained, with hospitals facing shortages of electricity, surgical equipment, and medicine. The killing of medical workers further exacerbates the crisis.

Humanitarian Crisis and Regional Tensions

Humanitarian organizations report a deepening crisis, with limited access to food, water, and medical supplies. The Rafah crossing, Gaza’s primary access point for aid and medical evacuations, has faced repeated closures. The conflict has also heightened regional tensions, with clashes involving Israel and Iran-aligned groups raising the risk of a wider escalation. Residents report a constant presence of drones overhead, creating a pervasive sense of insecurity.

International Response

The conflict has drawn international scrutiny, with legal proceedings examining potential violations of international law, including a case before the International Court of Justice. International observers note increased Western support for Israel’s military campaign, a dynamic that has faced criticism from numerous countries and human rights organizations.

Sources: TRT World, Anadolu Agency