Israeli Airstrikes Claim 40+ Lives in Central Gaza, Doctor Reports

On Saturday, Israeli airstrikes on Deir al-Balah, a central area in Gaza, resulted in the death of at least 44 Palestinians, with many more injured, according to a doctor from Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital speaking to CNN.

Previously, medical staff from both Al-Aqsa and Al-Awda hospitals had reported at least 30 fatalities to CNN. Disturbing footage shared with CNN depicted the aftermath within Al-Aqsa Hospital, showing injured children being brought in for urgent care and the lifeless bodies of victims, including an infant, laid out on the floor.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged carrying out airstrikes targeting what it described as Hamas “operational command and control centers” in central Gaza, specifically in the Nuseirat and Deir al-Balah districts.

As of Saturday, the total death toll in Gaza since October 7 has surged to 28,858, with 68,291 injuries reported, according to figures from the health ministry in Gaza, which is under Hamas control. Israel has estimated the death toll of Hamas militants since the same date to be around 10,000.