Israeli strike kills eight in central Gaza despite ceasefire

At least eight people were killed and 22 injured after an Israeli airstrike hit the Al-Balata market area in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. Israel said it targeted a Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant cell and is reviewing reports of civilian casualties. The attack highlights continued violence despite the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

At least eight people have been killed and 22 others injured after an Israeli airstrike hit a crowded area in central Gaza, according to local Palestinian officials.
The attack took place in the Al-Balata market area of the Nuseirat refugee camp, where residents had gathered during what local officials said was a funeral procession.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns that violence continues despite a ceasefire agreement intended to reduce hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

STRIKE HITS CROWDED MARKET AREA

Gaza's civil defence agency, which operates under the Hamas administration, said Israeli warplanes targeted an area where civilians had gathered.
The agency reported that eight people lost their lives in the strike, while dozens of others were wounded.
Medical officials at Al-Awda Hospital confirmed receiving the bodies of the victims and treating 22 injured people.
The crowded location and the reported funeral gathering have raised fears about the humanitarian impact of continued military operations in densely populated areas.

ISRAEL SAYS MILITANTS WERE TARGETED

The Israeli military said the operation targeted what it described as a "terrorist cell" belonging to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad armed group.
In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged reports that civilians may have been harmed during the strike and said the incident was under review.
Israeli authorities maintain that military operations are aimed at armed groups operating within Gaza.

HUMANITARIAN CONCERNS CONTINUE

Although Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in October to halt more than two years of fighting, deadly incidents have continued.
According to Gaza's Health Ministry, which operates under Hamas, more than 1,100 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire came into effect.
The Israeli military has also reported the deaths of at least five soldiers during the same period.
The continuing violence has deepened concerns about civilian safety and the long-term sustainability of the ceasefire.
International organisations have repeatedly called on all parties to protect civilians and work towards a lasting political solution to the conflict.