Recent reports confirm that the death toll from an Israeli strike on a mosque in central Gaza has tragically risen to 21 individuals. The strike, which occurred overnight in Deir el Balah, resulted in chaotic scenes as bodies were pulled from the rubble of the religious site.
The revised death toll, previously reported at 18, was updated by the local Civil Defense and Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, located in close proximity to the mosque. Civilians, civil defense personnel, and hospital staff worked tirelessly in the darkness to retrieve victims, utilizing only the light from their mobile phones.
A harrowing video captured the devastating aftermath of the attack, with bodies strewn across the area and individuals desperately calling for help as they uncovered casualties. The footage depicts the frantic efforts of rescuers, including attempts to revive motionless victims and extract survivors trapped under debris.
Despite the challenging conditions, injured individuals were swiftly transported to the nearby hospital, some visibly covered in blood and dust. The Israeli military has confirmed responsibility for the strike, describing it as a 'precise' operation targeting a Hamas 'command and control' center allegedly located within the mosque compound.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region and the devastating impact it has on civilian populations. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.