In brief
The airstrike on the Baqaa Cafe killed over 30 people and severely injured many others, with critical cases reported.
The seaside café, Baqaa Cafe and Restaurant in Gaza City, was the target of an Israeli airstrike on Monday afternoon, resulting in over two dozen deaths and numerous injuries, according to local health officials. Mohammad Abu Salmiya, the director of Al-Shifa Hospital, confirmed that more than 30 individuals were killed and over 50 injured, many of whom are reported to be in critical condition. Official casualty figures from the Gaza health ministry have yet to be released.The Israeli military has not issued any comments regarding the airstrike, which occurred just one day after evacuation alerts were broadcast for sections of Gaza City, indicating an impending escalation in military operations. The Baqaa Café was a beloved spot for locals, providing a place for relaxation, internet access, work, and social gatherings. Eyewitness reports and photos from the scene depict the café’s extensive destruction, with chairs and tables scattered amidst bloodshed; personal items of patrons litter the area. The strike highlights the ongoing conflict situation and its devastating impact on civilian spaces in the region.
