An Israeli military operation in the central Gaza Strip resulted in the deaths of two Palestinians, including a three-year-old child, as confirmed by health authorities on Sunday. Medics in Gaza reported that the airstrike, near a bakery in Deir al-Balah, claimed the lives of Tayyem Hamdan, aged 3, and Hussam Nusair, along with injuring several others.
The Israeli military stated that the strike targeted and eliminated a Hamas militant, identifying Nusair as responsible for launching attacks against Israeli civilians and forces. Hamas has not yet responded to these allegations put forth by the military.
Despite a ceasefire brokered with U.S. support last October to quell major hostilities in the region, Israeli military actions have persisted, aimed at preventing attacks by Hamas and other Gaza-based militant groups. Hamas has accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire terms and impeding the implementation of a broader peace initiative proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which includes Israeli withdrawals and the disarmament of Hamas.
Since the ceasefire came into effect last October, more than 1,300 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives in Gaza, according to health officials in the region. In contrast, the Israeli military has reported the deaths of four Israeli soldiers during the same period.