In a sharp escalation, Israeli forces carried out a deadly attack east of Al-Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, following the failure of affiliated militias to advance into the area.

Field reports indicate that militias attempted to raid homes and detain civilians inside a school sheltering displaced families, opening heavy fire during the operation. Residents, alongside Palestinian resistance fighters, confronted them, leading to intense clashes that halted the incursion.

As the militias failed to push forward, Israeli forces intervened directly. Drones and military vehicles launched strikes and opened fire across the area, targeting anyone moving, in what witnesses describe as indiscriminate attacks on civilians.

The assault quickly turned into a massacre. Initial reports confirm more than 10 people killed, while eyewitnesses suggest the toll may exceed 20. Dozens were injured, including women and children, with many in critical condition as casualties continue to arrive at hospitals.

Witnesses also reported that a drone-fired missile struck during attempts to evacuate the wounded, further increasing the number of casualties.

Clashes remain ongoing, with the area under heavy tension and fears that the death toll will continue to rise.

What unfolded in eastern Al-Maghazi reflects a severe escalation, where civilians were caught in direct fire following the collapse of the initial ground operation.