At least 70 people have been killed in a series of Israeli air strikes in Gaza, according to the health ministry in the region. The strikes, which hit multiple houses in a refugee camp, have caused widespread devastation, with the toll expected to rise as more families are accounted for. The Al-Maghazi camp in the center of the Palestinian territory was particularly hard hit, with the strike destroying several houses.

latest Israeli air strike in Maghazi camp in central Gaza, 70 people killed, dozens injured, others trapped under the rubble. Hamas media office described the raid as a “hideous massacre”. Says Israel “directs people to places it claims are safe and kills them there.” pic.twitter.com/AGKiUGv5M5

— Rushdi Abualouf (@Rushdibbc) December 24, 2023

The ministry reported that at least 70 people have been killed in this massacre, with the number of fatalities continuing to rise. In a separate incident, the ministry also reported that 10 members of one family were killed in an Israeli strike on their house in the Jabalia camp in northern Gaza. The Israeli army has stated that it is checking the reports, and AFP was unable to independently verify the toll. The strikes have sparked outrage and condemnation from around the world, with calls for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues to escalate.