Hamas Official Killed in Israeli Air Strike at Gaza School

In a tragic turn of events, a senior Hamas official, Ehab Al-Ghussein, was among four individuals killed in an Israeli air strike at a school in Gaza City, Palestinian sources report. Al-Ghussein had been appointed to manage the affairs of the Hamas government in Gaza City and northern Gaza just three months ago, highlighting the significant loss suffered by the Hamas administration. The Israeli army has stated that the strike on the school building was targeting "terrorists" operating and hiding in the area. Despite claiming to have taken steps to minimize civilian casualties, eyewitnesses describe a harrowing scene at the Holy Family School, where a large number of people were seeking shelter. The strike, which focused on two ground-floor classrooms, has left the community reeling from the devastating impact. In response to the escalating violence, the Israeli military has issued an evacuation order for a central part of Gaza City, prompting residents like Ibrahim Al-Barbari to hastily gather their belongings and prepare to leave their homes. The ongoing conflict has created a dire humanitarian situation, with many families facing food insecurity and displacement amid the chaos. The death of Ehab Al-Ghussein adds to a grim toll of Hamas officials and government figures who have been targeted in Israeli strikes over the past nine months. The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly emphasized that the aim of the conflict is not just military but also political, seeking to dismantle Hamas as an organization. As the violence continues to escalate and casualties mount on both sides, the toll on civilians caught in the crossfire remains a grave concern. With thousands of Palestinians killed and displaced, the conflict shows no signs of abating, raising urgent calls for de-escalation and efforts towards a lasting peace in the region.