Gaza: Total of 87 people were martyred or missing under rubble after an Israeli attack on northern Gaza’s town of Beit Lahiya, with more than 40 wounded, Palestinian enclave’s health ministry said.

Israeli military has said it was investigating reports of incident, which left one of highest casualty tolls in months. Earlier, it said total of 73 reported by Hamas media office appeared exaggerated given nature of munitions used in strike, which it said hit Hamas target.

Gaza’s Health Ministry said rescue operations were being hindered by communications problems and by Israeli military operation still going on around area, close to border line with Israel, Ministry said.

“Victims are still under rubble and on road and ambulance teams and civil emergency can’t reach them,” it said in statement.

“Horrifying scenes unfolding in Gaza, amidst conflict, relentless Israeli strikes and an ever-worsening humanitarian crisis. I condemn continuing attacks on civilians,” UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland posted on X.

“Hostages must be freed, displacement of Palestinians must cease and civilians must be protected,” he added. Residents in Jabalia said Israeli forces raided shelters housing displaced families and detained dozens of men.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 21 2024

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