DEIR EL BALAH – Israeli attack on a house housing displaced people early Sunday in the north of the Gaza Strip At least 17 people died, according to the director of a nearby hospital that received the bodies.

Director of Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, Dr. Fadıl Naim said that there were nine women among the dead and that the number of deaths will probably increase as rescue efforts continue.

He said that they were killed in an attack on a house in the refugee camp in the city of Jabaliya, where Israel has been attacking for more than a month.

There has been no statement from the Israeli army yet.

Israeli forces surrounded and largely isolated Jabaliyah and the nearby towns of Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanun last month, allowing them to enter. just some humanitarian aid. Hundreds of people have been killed and tens of thousands have fled to nearby Gaza city since the offensive began on October 6.

On Friday, experts from a panel that monitors food safety said: Famine is coming in the north or it may already be happening. Growing despair comes deadline is approaching The Biden administration issued an ultimatum to Israel to either increase the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza or Risk of possible restrictions on US military funding.

The northern third of Gaza, including Gaza City, was the first target of Israel’s land invasion and suffered the heaviest destruction in the 13-month war triggered by Hamas’ attack on southern Israel. As in other parts of Gaza, Israel Sent back his forces after repeated operationsHe said Hamas was regrouping.

The army says it only targets militants it accuses of hiding among civilians in homes and shelters. Israeli attacks frequently kill women and children.

The war began when militants led by Hamas opened holes in the border fence and attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023. They killed approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapped around 250 others. Nearly 100 hostages still in GazaAbout a third are believed to have died.

Israeli attacks have killed more than 43,000 Palestinians, but more than half of the deaths were women and children, according to local health officials, who do not distinguish between civilians and militants in their numbers.

Israeli bombardment and land invasions Destroyed large areas of Gaza Approximately 90% of the population of 2.3 million was displaced, often more than once. Hundreds of thousands of people live in crowded tent camps, with little to no public services and no idea about public services. when they can return or rebuild their homes.

Ceasefire talks mediated by the United States, Qatar and Egypt have stalled several times since the beginning of this year.

Qatar, which acts as a mediator with Hamas, said over the weekend: had suspended his efforts and will only resume them “when the parties demonstrate their willingness and seriousness to end the brutal war and the continued suffering of civilians.”

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Magdy reported from Cairo.

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