Khan Younis, Gaza – In a harrowing escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli airstrikes on southern Gaza, particularly in Khan Younis, have resulted in a surge of civilian casualties, according to multiple reports from the ground. The incidents, occurring throughout April 2025, highlight the devastating impact on displaced Palestinians seeking shelter in makeshift tents.
Airstrikes Intensify in Khan Younis
On April 27, Al Jazeera Arabic reported that Israeli forces bombed tents housing displaced Palestinians in southern Khan Younis, as well as an apartment building in central Gaza, resulting in numerous injuries. A child was reported killed following an earlier attack on tents in the same area. Concurrently, Wafa news agency reported that three Palestinians, including two children, were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City. Rescuers stated that at least eight people, including a teenager, have died from Israeli strikes. A civil defense spokesman stated that civilians were struck in Gaza City’s Zeitun neighborhood, and a residential building in the Bureij refugee camp was also hit. These reports also included allegations of Israeli forces opening fire on fishermen in Khan Younis, resulting in one death and another injury.
Rising Casualties and International Concerns
Just a day prior, on April 26, Al Jazeera reported dozens of casualties, predominantly women and children, from Israeli military strikes targeting multiple sites within Khan Younis. These recent attacks contribute to a grim tally, as Gaza’s Health Ministry reported on April 19 that over 92 Palestinians had been killed in Israeli attacks within the preceding 48 hours. The ministry further stated that at least 51,065 Palestinians have died, and 116,505 have been wounded in Israel’s war on Gaza since it began 18 months ago.
The continued airstrikes and rising civilian death toll have sparked concerns from international observers and humanitarian organizations, pointing to the urgent need for a ceasefire and increased protection for civilians caught in the crossfire. The situation underscores the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where displaced families are struggling to survive amidst ongoing violence and limited access to essential resources.