On Wednesday, a series of Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling in Gaza resulted in the deaths of nine Palestinians, including three children, while at least 31 others sustained injuries. The Palestinian Civil Defence Agency reported that the casualties occurred across multiple locations, indicating a coordinated sequence of attacks rather than an isolated incident.
According to the Israeli military, the strikes were conducted in response to gunfire aimed at their personnel, which reportedly injured one officer. The Israeli forces described their operation as a “targeted strike” and characterised it as a reaction to what they consider a breach of the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. The attack occurred near the so-called “Yellow Line,” a security boundary outside the areas where Israeli forces are stationed.
Since the second phase of the ceasefire, brokered by the United States and implemented on 10 October, Israeli military operations have claimed the lives of 523 Palestinians. The latest escalation also saw four Israeli soldiers killed, according to the Israeli Defence Forces.
Earlier incidents have contributed to mounting tensions. Last Saturday, an Israeli strike killed at least 37 Palestinians, which the Israeli military claims was a retaliatory measure against violations of the ceasefire by Hamas.
In Wednesday’s attacks, three bodies were transported to Nasser Hospital following shelling of tents and residential structures in southern Khan Yunis. Meanwhile, six more bodies were taken to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City after separate strikes.
Diplomatic engagement continues alongside the hostilities. On Tuesday, U.S. envoy Steve Whitkof met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. Netanyahu reportedly emphasised that any reconstruction efforts in Gaza must be preceded by the complete disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarisation of the region.
Casualty Overview – 4 February 2026 Gaza Strikes
| Location | Fatalities | Injured | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Khan Yunis | 3 | — | Children among the deceased; tents and homes hit |
| Gaza City | 6 | — | Civilian residences targeted; Al-Shifa Hospital received bodies |
| Total | 9 | 31+ | Includes three children; multiple sites affected |
The ongoing cycle of attacks and retaliations has exacerbated humanitarian concerns in the densely populated territory, raising urgent calls from international observers for renewed dialogue and effective protection for civilians.