Gaza: Israeli airstrike kills 18, including a family of 15

In a devastating incident early Saturday, at least 18 individuals were killed and dozens more wounded in an Israeli airstrike in central Gaza, according to hospital authorities.

The strike specifically targeted a residential home and an adjacent warehouse that were sheltering displaced persons at the entrance of Zawayda.

Among the deceased was a family of 15, including a renowned meat wholesaler, Sami Jawad al-Agalah, who was known for coordinating with the Israeli military to facilitate the supply of meat to Gaza.

His family members, including his wife, mother, and 11 children—ranging in age from two to 22—were all tragically caught in the attack. The fatalities were confirmed through a list provided by Al Aqsa hospital.

Witnesses reported that the airstrike struck a bustling area where more than 40 civilians, including numerous women and children, had sought refuge. Abu Ahmed, a neighbor who sustained minor injuries, described the scene as chaotic, with people and a bulldozer working tirelessly to search through the rubble for survivors.

“Abu Jawad is a well-known wholesaler who brings meat and fish from inside Israel,” Ahmed said. “He used to sell to people and give food for free. He was a peaceful man.”

The Israeli military stated that the strike was aimed at an area from which rockets had been launched at its troops, adding that the incident is currently under review. This airstrike occurred just hours after international mediators concluded what they characterized as “constructive” ceasefire negotiations in Doha, raising questions about the timing and implications of such military actions.