GAZA CITY, Palestine: Two Palestinian teenagers were killed in a drone strike by Israeli forces on Saturday, Gaza’s civil defence agency said, while Israel says the victims were posing an “immediate threat” to its troops.
The civil defence, which operates under Hamas authority, reported that the strike occurred near Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza.
The victims were identified as Salman Zakaria, 14, and Mohammed Youssef, 15, from the Al-Zawara family. Their bodies were received at Al Shifa Hospital.
Israeli military officials said the Palestinian children had planted an explosive device near troops and posed an immediate threat.
“Following the identification, the air force struck to remove the threat,” a military statement said.
Eyewitnesses, cited by Anadolu Agency, said that the drone dropped the bomb in an area from which Israeli forces had previously withdrawn under the terms of the US-brokered ceasefire.
Gaza’s health authorities reported additional injuries in northern and southern Gaza.
Ambulance sources, cited by Anadolu, said several Palestinians were wounded in a strike on Old Gaza Street in Jabalia, while a man in Beit Lahia and another in central Khan Younis were injured by Israeli gunfire.
Gaza’s health ministry said Israeli attacks since the October 10 ceasefire have killed 481 Palestinians and wounded 1,313.
Overall, since October 7, 2023, the ministry reports that the Israeli bombardment campaign has killed at least 71,654 Palestinians and injured 171,391 others in Gaza.
Humanitarian strain
Severe fuel shortages have forced Palestinians to gather fuel under harsh winter conditions, with temperatures dropping to 10°C (50°F) at night.
Thousands live in makeshift tents made of thin canvas and plastic, offering minimal protection from wind and rain.
The blockade and restrictions on aid, including shelters and reconstruction materials, continue to exacerbate the crisis.
The Palestinian Health Ministry also reported that winter-related fatalities among children have risen to 10, with the death of three-month-old Ali Abu Zour at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.
US engagement
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were in Israel on Saturday to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, mainly to discuss Gaza, Reuters reported.
The US announced plans for a “New Gaza” reconstruction project, including residential towers, data centres, and seaside resorts, as part of its push to reinforce the fragile ceasefire.
Under the US-brokered ceasefire, Israeli forces withdrew to positions behind the so-called “Yellow Line,” though they maintain control over more than half of Gaza.
