Israeli Strikes on Gaza Kill at Least 12 People, Palestinian Officials Say

At least 12 people have been killed in Israeli airstrikes and shootings in Gaza over the past two days, according to Palestinian health authorities, as violence continues despite an ongoing ceasefire.

The reported deaths include members of the same family killed in central Gaza on Wednesday and a child who was shot by Israeli forces near Rafah, according to Palestinian officials.

The latest incidents come amid continued tensions between Israel and Palestinian militant groups, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire agreement.

On Tuesday, a woman and six police officers were among those killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting a police station in the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza.

The Israeli military said four of the officers were Hamas militants, but did not provide evidence detailing their alleged involvement in planning or carrying out attacks.

The strikes on Gaza’s police forces have drawn criticism from the United Nations Human Rights Office, which said attacks on police personnel had occurred multiple times this year, including during what it described as ordinary law enforcement activities.

The UN body has raised concerns over the impact of such attacks on Gaza’s civilian infrastructure and public services.

According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 1,100 people have been killed in the territory since the ceasefire came into effect in October.

Israel has said its military actions are in response to attacks by Palestinian militants and other alleged ceasefire violations. Palestinian armed groups have continued carrying out attacks against Israeli troops, while Israel maintains that it is acting to protect its forces and prevent further threats.

Five Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ceasefire began, according to Israeli authorities.

The latest violence highlights the fragile nature of the ceasefire, which has struggled to prevent further casualties and renewed clashes between the two sides.

Humanitarian organisations have continued to call for greater protection of civilians and increased efforts to maintain stability in Gaza, where many communities are still recovering from months of conflict.

The situation remains closely monitored internationally, with diplomatic efforts continuing to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, repeated incidents of violence have raised concerns about whether the truce can hold and whether further negotiations will lead to a more lasting resolution.