Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged on Monday that a “tragic mistake” occurred in an Israeli strike on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. This strike set fire to a camp housing displaced Palestinians, resulting in at least 45 deaths, according to local officials.
The incident has intensified international criticism of Israel over its conflict with Hamas, with even its closest allies condemning the civilian casualties. Despite this, Israel maintains that it follows international law, even as it faces scrutiny from top global courts, one of which recently demanded a halt to the offensive in Rafah.
Netanyahu did not provide details about the error. Initially, the Israeli military claimed to have conducted a precise airstrike on a Hamas compound, killing two senior militants. However, as the situation unfolded, the military announced an investigation into the civilian deaths.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday night, is among the deadliest in the ongoing conflict, pushing the Palestinian death toll above 36,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between fighters and noncombatants.
“Despite our utmost efforts not to harm innocent civilians, last night there was a tragic mistake,” Netanyahu stated in an address to Israel’s parliament. “We are investigating the incident and will obtain a conclusion because this is our policy.”
Mohammed Abuassa, a rescuer at the scene, described the horrific conditions, saying they pulled out people in unbearable states, including children in pieces and other victims charred by the fire.
The Gaza Health Ministry and the Palestinian Red Crescent rescue service reported at least 45 deaths, including 12 women, eight children, and three older adults. Three bodies were burned beyond recognition.
In a related incident, Egypt’s military reported that one of its soldiers was killed during an exchange of fire in Rafah. Both Israel and Egypt are investigating the incident, with initial findings indicating the soldier responded to a clash between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants.
The U.N. Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to discuss the situation in Rafah, requested by Algeria, the Arab representative on the council.
Rafah, located on the border with Egypt, has become a refuge for over a million displaced people from other parts of Gaza. However, the recent Israeli incursion has caused many to flee again, with hundreds of thousands now living in overcrowded tent camps.
Elsewhere in Rafah, the Kuwait Hospital, one of the few operational medical centers, is shutting down after a strike killed two health workers. Dr. Suhaib al-Hamas announced the staff’s relocation to a field hospital.
Netanyahu insists that Israel must destroy the remaining Hamas battalions in Rafah, following a rocket barrage launched by the militant group towards central Israel, which caused no injuries.
The Rafah strike has drawn sharp condemnation globally. The U.S. National Security Council described the images from Rafah as “heartbreaking,” while French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate ceasefire and respect for international law. Germany’s Foreign Office demanded a swift investigation into the circumstances of the strike.
Qatar, a key mediator for a cease-fire and the release of hostages held by Hamas, warned that the Rafah strike could hinder negotiations. Israel’s top legal official, Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, confirmed that authorities are investigating the strike and other possible violations of international law, including civilian deaths and conditions in detention facilities.
