In a tense escalation, the armed wing of the Islamic Jihad movement, al-Quds Brigades, launched rocket attacks on Israeli cities including Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Sderot. The assault came in response to airstrikes near the Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis. 🚀
The group stated, "We attacked Ashdod, Ashkelon, Sderot and Israeli settlements adjacent to Gaza with rocket barrages in response to the Israeli massacres against our Palestinian people," emphasizing a decisive response to ongoing violence.
Reports indicate that sirens rang out in several southern Israeli towns. According to military spokesperson Avichay Adraee, two rockets were intercepted, while a third landed in an open area without causing casualties.
Following the rocket launch, the Israel Defense Forces ordered residents in Jabalia city and nearby refugee camps to evacuate immediately to shelter centers in Gaza City for safety ahead of an imminent strike.
Hours earlier, intensive airstrikes near the hospital had wrought heavy damage, with Gaza-based health authorities reporting at least six Palestinian fatalities and 40 injuries. The IDF claimed the strike targeted an underground Hamas command center, with some reports suggesting it even focused on Hamas figure Mohammed Sinwar.
Amid these developments, China called on the international community to urgently step in to halt the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. China's permanent representative Fu Cong described the area as "a living hell," stressing that continuous bombings and raids are causing severe civilian suffering. Fu urged Israel to adhere to international humanitarian law by lifting blockades and allowing unimpeded access to food, medicine, and essential supplies. 😢
The latest events underscore the deepening crisis in the region and highlight the urgent need for both humanitarian relief and renewed international dialogue.
Reference(s):
Islamic Jihad launches rockets at Israel in response to Gaza strikes
cgtn.com
