Health authorities in Gaza have confirmed the deaths of at least 25 civilians and numerous injuries following Israeli shelling of a house sheltering displaced individuals in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The area, initially designated as a 'safe zone' by the Israeli army, witnessed civilian casualties as artillery fire targeted central Gaza.

Exact figures of casualties remain elusive due to ongoing disruptions in communications within the war-torn enclave. However, reports indicate intense Israeli airstrikes in areas such as southern Khan Yunis and central Gaza, with confirmed casualties including a woman killed and several others injured in Deir al-Balah.

In response to the assaults, victims have been rushed to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital for urgent medical care. The situation remains dire, particularly in Rafah, where Israeli warplanes persist in airstrikes amid fears of an imminent ground invasion.

The latest wave of violence follows reports of approximately 42 civilians killed in Rafah due to Israeli airstrikes in the preceding hours. Overall, the Israeli offensive has resulted in a staggering toll, with over 28,064 fatalities and 67,611 injuries reported.

Compounding the crisis, rescue and ambulance teams face obstacles in reaching victims, as Israeli occupation forces restrict access to many trapped under rubble or on roads. The situation underscores the urgent need for international intervention to mitigate the escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. (ILKHA)