Israeli airstrikes hit a crowded Palestinian refugee camp in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 Palestinians and one leader of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), while rescuers struggled to treat the injured, even setting up operating rooms in hospital corridors. Israeli tanks have been operating in Gaza for at least four days following weeks of airstrikes in response to an attack by Hamas militants on Israel on October 7, which involved the abduction of over 200 hostages.
An Israeli military statement indicated that the air raid carried out by fighter jets on Jabalia, the largest refugee camp in Gaza, led to the death of Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Bayari. Israeli army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus stated, "He was very important, and I can say he played a key role in planning and executing the October 7 attack on Israel from the northeastern areas of the Gaza Strip."
Conricus added that dozens of Hamas fighters were in the same tunnels as Al-Bayari and were also killed when they collapsed during the strike. He noted, "I understand that's also why there are many reports of collateral damage and non-combatant casualties. We are investigating these reports as well."
Palestinian health officials reported that at least 50 Palestinians were killed in the refugee camp, with 150 others injured. Hazem Qassem, a spokesperson for Hamas, denied the presence of any senior leader at the site, describing the claim as an Israeli pretext for killing civilians. A Hamas statement indicated there were 400 casualties in Jabalia, which shelters families of refugees from wars with Israel dating back to 1948.
The attack left large craters surrounded by destroyed concrete buildings. Israel has issued repeated warnings to Gaza residents to evacuate northern areas; while many moved south, others remained in the north, fearing permanent displacement and Israeli bombardment targeting the south as well.
