An Israeli airstrike in southern Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 Palestinians, including high-ranking Hamas officials. Among the victims were Mahmoud Salah, the chief of the Hamas-run police force, and his assistant, Hussam Shahwan. Additionally, the attack claimed the lives of three children and two women at a makeshift camp in al-Mawasi, located to the west of Khan Younis. This strike, which targeted a tent camp sheltering displaced families, is seen by Hamas as an assassination of its officials, who were engaged in humanitarian and national efforts.

The Israeli military has yet to comment on the deaths, though it is reportedly investigating the incident. The military has also declared al-Mawasi a humanitarian zone, intended to provide refuge for displaced Palestinians. Despite this, Israeli forces have continued to target the area, accusing Hamas militants of hiding among civilians. The situation in the camp has been exacerbated by cold and wet conditions, which have made life even more difficult for the displaced population.

In the broader context of the ongoing conflict, there have been additional Israeli airstrikes in other parts of Gaza. These include attacks in Jabalia, a northern suburb of Gaza City, and Bureij, located in central Gaza. These strikes are believed to be retaliation for rocket fire originating from these areas into southern Israel as the new year began.