Israeli strike at Gaza medical aid queue kills at least 15, including children
Civilians, many queuing for nutritional supplements and medical care at a clinic in Deir al-Balah, were struck by an Israeli airstrike. Palestinian health authorities report at least 15 fatalities, including 10 children, and over 30 injured as people waited at Project HOPE’s Altayara clinic. The IDF says its target was a Hamas militant linked to the 7 October 2023 attacks and has launched an internal review. Project HOPE has halted operations at the site and condemned the incident as a violation of international humanitarian law. The strike occurred amid ceasefire negotiations in Qatar.
🔁 Reactions:
- Project HOPE: “Horrified and heartbroken … innocent families mercilessly attacked waiting for help.” (CNA)
- IDF spokesperson: “Strike targeted a Hamas operative; civilian injuries are regrettable and under review.” (The Washington Post)
- Gaza health ministry: > “Why did they kill them, just getting treatment in a medical facility?”
📰 Media Bias & Framing:
- The Guardian/AP/Reuters/BBC emphasise the civilian toll, especially children’s deaths, and note Israel’s review process amid ongoing truce talks.
- Humanitarian outlets (Al Jazeera, Project HOPE) underline breaches of international law and the suspension of medical services.
- Israeli officials/IDF statements present the strike as targeting a militant and express regret for non-combatant harm, citing legal military protocols.
📊 Sentiment: Strongly negative. The strike’s deadly outcome marred humanitarian aid efforts, drawing sharp condemnation from aid groups and intensifying doubts about the protection of civilians inside conflict zones. It complicates fragile ceasefire talks and highlights endless tension between military justification and civilian vulnerability.
