In a shocking violation of the agreed ceasefire, the Israeli military has killed eight individuals, including three journalists and several aid workers affiliated with the UK-based Al Khair Foundation, in an airstrike on Beit Lahia, northern Gaza. The attack has sparked international outrage, raising serious questions about Israel’s commitment to the fragile truce with Hamas.
Massacre During a Ceasefire
The Al Khair Foundation reports that its team members and independent journalists were traveling in vehicles conducting humanitarian work—setting up shelters and documenting relief efforts—when they were deliberately targeted by Israeli forces during the agreed ceasefire. Hamas has condemned the attack as a “blatant violation” of the ceasefire agreement, which has been in place since January.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have attempted to justify the killings, falsely claiming that the victims were “terrorists operating a drone” that allegedly threatened Israeli troops. However, witnesses and the Al Khair Foundation categorically refute these allegations, stating that the strike was an unprovoked attack on civilians engaged in humanitarian work.
Among the victims were video editor Bilal Abu Matar and cameramen Mahmoud Al-Sarraj, Bilal Aqila, and Mahmoud Asleem, according to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate. The organization has accused Israel of systematically targeting Palestinian journalists to suppress reporting on its military actions in Gaza.
Ongoing Israeli Killings During the Ceasefire
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces have continued their deadly operations in Gaza, killing at least 150 Palestinians since the truce began in January—an average of over three people per day. This figure, reported by human rights organizations and local media, includes at least 40 individuals killed in the past two weeks alone. In addition to the fatalities, over 600 Palestinians have been injured by Israeli military actions, including drone strikes and sniper attacks.
The systematic violence has led to growing international condemnation, as Israel’s actions cast further doubt on its commitment to peace efforts. The latest attack on aid workers and journalists is part of an ongoing pattern of lethal force used against civilians during what was supposed to be a cessation of hostilities.
Statement from Al Khair Foundation
The Al Khair Foundation, which lost its aid workers in the attack, issued a statement condemning the strike and demanding accountability:
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims during this difficult time. It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the demise in Gaza of eight of our team’s dedicated humanitarian aid workers. They were killed in violation of the agreed ceasefire in a drone airstrike. The exact circumstances are still being established but we refute utterly any suggestion that those who were killed were militant or in any way connected with Hamas.
The loss of these aid workers is a profound tragedy, highlighting the perilous conditions under which humanitarian missions are conducted in conflict zones. Their dedication and commitment to alleviating suffering in one of the most challenging environments cannot be overstated.
We call for a thorough and transparent investigation into this incident and urge all parties involved in the conflict to uphold international humanitarian law, ensuring the safety of aid workers who risk their lives to serve vulnerable communities. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to protect those who selflessly work to bring relief to those in need.”
Ceasefire in Jeopardy as Israel Escalates Violence
This attack comes at a critical juncture, as negotiations over the ceasefire have stalled. The truce, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. in January, was supposed to lead to a phased de-escalation, including the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel’s continued military aggression has cast doubt on the ceasefire’s future.
Hamas has demanded immediate talks on a permanent ceasefire, while Israel continues to wage attacks on the besieged Gaza Strip. The latest killings have heightened tensions, reinforcing skepticism about Israel’s commitment to peace.
Global Outrage and Humanitarian Crisis
The deliberate targeting of aid workers and journalists has ignited international condemnation. The Al Khair Foundation has rejected Israel’s justification, emphasizing that its personnel were engaged in critical relief efforts for civilians in desperate need.
Global press freedom organizations have decried the killing of journalists, calling for accountability and protection for media workers. Meanwhile, several injured victims were rushed to the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel’s military actions and the blockade on essential aid.
The recent airstrike is yet another example of Israel’s pattern of targeting civilians, aid workers, and journalists with impunity. Calls for war crimes investigations are growing, as the international community faces increasing pressure to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
What Happens Next?
With ceasefire negotiations in tatters and Israel continuing its attacks, the prospect of lasting peace appears increasingly distant. Hamas has warned that it will only release an American-Israeli dual national if Israel upholds its end of the ceasefire agreement, which includes lifting blockades and withdrawing from occupied areas.
Today’s murder of journalists and aid workers in Gaza by the IDF underscores the high cost of Israel’s military actions and the urgent need for international intervention. The world is watching, and the pressure for accountability is intensifying.
