Israeli strikes kill 17 in Gaza, hospitals say, after soldier wounded by gunfire

Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 21 to 24 Palestinians, including children and infants, according to various health officials. Reports indicate that among the deceased were six children, two babies, and a total of seven women. The strikes were launched in response to gunfire from Palestinian militants that critically wounded one Israeli soldier, as stated by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). The military claimed that the airstrikes targeted individuals posing a threat to its forces, including three militant leaders. The airstrikes occurred despite a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since October 10, 2025. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating this ceasefire agreement. Gaza's health ministry reported that since the ceasefire began, Israeli strikes have resulted in at least 556 deaths in the region. The ongoing violence has raised significant concerns regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly the impact on civilian populations, including children. The situation in Gaza remains tense, with the recent airstrikes highlighting the fragility of ceasefire arrangements in the region. The recurring nature of such military actions underscores the long-standing cycle of conflict that has characterized Israeli-Palestinian relations for decades. The tragic loss of life in these strikes serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the underlying causes of the conflict and to seek a comprehensive resolution.