Israeli Airstrike in Khan Younis, Gaza Kills 71, Injures 289 in Designated Safe Zone

Jul 13, 2024, 09:55 AM

An Israeli airstrike on July 13, 2024, targeted a densely populated area in the al-Mawasi region of Khan Younis, Gaza, resulting in significant civilian casualties. At least 71 Palestinians were killed and over 100 injured, according to the Gaza health ministry. The area had been designated as a 'safe zone' by the Israeli army, where displaced civilians had sought refuge. The strike also hit civil defense teams who were attempting to rescue the wounded. This incident is one of the deadliest since the outbreak of the conflict, with reports indicating that the attack aimed at senior Hamas officials, including Ayman Showadeh, deputy commander of Hamas' Shejaiya Battalion, who was involved in the October 7 attack. The Israeli military confirmed the elimination of Showadeh in a separate strike.