Nine people killed in Israeli airstrike in Gaza

In northern Gaza, specifically in Beit Lahia, a tragic incident occurred on March 15, 2025, when an Israeli airstrike resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals. Among the casualties were several charity workers from the Al-Khair Foundation and three journalists, who were conducting humanitarian efforts at the time of the attack. The Israeli military stated that they targeted two militants operating a drone, claiming it posed a threat to their troops. Following this, additional strikes targeted individuals involved in the incident. The attack is considered the deadliest since a ceasefire agreement came into effect in January 2025, raising significant concern and condemnation from various humanitarian organizations and local officials. The incident has triggered outrage and accusations against the Israeli military, particularly from local Gaza officials and organizations like Hamas and the Palestinian Journalists’ Protection Center. They described the airstrike as a deliberate targeting of unarmed civilians and a blatant violation of international humanitarian law. It has been reported that the area was not designated as a combat zone, raising further questions about the justification for such military action amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The humanitarian implications are stark, as the region has been experiencing severe strife and requires aid, which is now being jeopardized due to the increasing hostilities. Continuing military operations by Israel in Gaza, despite the ceasefire agreement, have been a source of contention between conflicting parties. The ceasefire was originally set to halt fighting following intensified hostilities that began after Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023. Reports indicate that since the ceasefire's initiation, violence has persisted, with claims by Hamas of numerous civilian casualties as they further accuse Israel of breach of agreement. Israeli officials counter these claims, insisting that their military operations are responses to ongoing threats from Hamas militants, which include laying explosive devices and drone incursions. The aftermath of the airstrike has provoked discussions about the future of the ceasefire negotiations. Mediators such as the United States and Egypt involved in the talks have expressed concerns about the risk of resuming full-scale conflict if military actions continue. The current deadlock in negotiations for a permanent peace agreement, including the exchange of hostages and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, exacerbates the tense situation on the ground. Activists and humanitarian agencies are urging for immediate intervention and reassessment of strategies to avoid further losses among civilians as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.