Official statements from countries' governments

Israeli Airstrike in Gaza's Humanitarian Zone Kills 11, Including Police Chief and Deputy

Jan 2, 2025, 10:42 AM

An Israeli airstrike in the al-Mawasi area of Khan Younis, southern Gaza, killed at least 11 Palestinians, including Major General Mahmoud Salah, the director general of Gaza's police force, and his deputy, Major General Hussam Shahwan. The attack occurred in a region designated by Israel as a 'humanitarian zone.' The Gaza Interior Ministry condemned the strike, stating that the two police officers were performing their humanitarian and national duties when they were killed. The Israeli military confirmed targeting Shahwan, describing him as a terrorist involved in planning attacks on Israeli forces in coordination with Hamas's military wing. The strike also resulted in the deaths of three children and two women, exacerbating the ongoing conflict's toll on civilians in Gaza.