Israel drone strike kills child in Gaza safe zone as UN report details targeting

An Israeli drone attack on makeshift tents in the al‑Mawasi area of Khan Younis killed a young girl and injured four other Palestinians, despite the site being designated a cease‑fire safe zone for displaced residents. The strike was part of continued Israeli operations in Gaza that have drawn international criticism.

A United Nations Human Rights Council Independent International Commission of Inquiry report concluded that Israeli forces have intentionally targeted children in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem since the October 2023 conflict began. The inquiry documented at least 20,179 child deaths and 44,143 injuries, including over 5,000 children under five and roughly 420 newborns. It warned that the actual toll is likely higher, estimating an additional 5,160 missing or unaccounted child victims. The report described the attacks as deliberate, citing the use of large‑yield bombs and repeated strikes on densely populated civilian areas.

The findings underscore growing concerns that Israeli military actions have systematically harmed Palestinian civilians, especially children, violating international humanitarian law.