An Israeli airstrike on a camp in the western part of the city resulted in the deaths of at least six people, including one child. The attack occurred on Tuesday, 18 August 2026. Survivors reported that at least 14 people were injured, including children. Human rights experts and witnesses on the ground stated that the incident constituted a direct breach of a previously agreed ceasefire, triggering sharp reactions from the local population and the international community.
According to initial reports, the Israeli military stated that the target was a group of armed members of Hamas, including a brigade commander and three faction leaders. The individuals were planning attacks on Israeli forces, which was cited as the primary reason for the airstrike. Although the Israeli military claimed the objective was to neutralise a threat, the attack resulted in significant civilian casualties, leading to renewed tensions in the region.
Local sources stated that the attack took place near a fishing port, close to a refugee camp. At the time of the attack, more than 20 people were present in the building, including women and children, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The international community, including the United Nations, has called for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of the wounded. The European Union has expressed concern over the escalation of violence and called on both sides to exercise restraint.
