Israeli Airstrike Kills 11 Civilians, including children, in Gaza Despite Ceasefire

An Israeli airstrike in the al-Zeitoun area of eastern Gaza has killed 11 civilians from the same family. The incident took place shortly after the victims crossed the “yellow line,” an area considered a boundary between Israeli-controlled zones and Palestinian movement areas.

According to the Palestinian Civil Defence, seven children and two women were among the dead. Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal confirmed that the strike hit the vehicle of the Shaaban family without any warning.

Basal said the attack could have been avoided. “It was possible to warn them or handle the situation without causing death,” he stated. “This confirms civilians are being deliberately targeted.”

The deadly strike occurred despite the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. The truce, implemented on October 10, involved a limited Israeli withdrawal and restrictions on military operations near civilian zones.

The “yellow line” is meant to reduce direct confrontation, but the recent attack has raised serious doubts about Israel’s commitment to the truce.

Hamas strongly condemned the airstrike, calling it a “new massacre.” The group said the Shaaban family was returning to check on their home when they were struck.

“The attack exposes the occupation’s determination to violate the ceasefire and pursue civilians wherever they go,” Hamas said in an official statement. The group described the strike as a clear and “flagrant breach” of the truce.

Humanitarian groups and local authorities have expressed deep concern over rising civilian deaths. Many families living near conflict lines are afraid to return to their homes, fearing more sudden attacks.

This incident has added to growing tensions in Gaza, where residents already face shortages of basic services, medical help, and safe shelter.