Israeli Airstrikes Kill 22 in Southern Gaza City of Rafah

Including 18 Children, According to Palestinian Officials

Situation for Kids in Gaza 'Shocking,' Says UNICEF Official

By The Associated Press

RAFAH, Gaza Strip - Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza city of Rafah overnight killed 22 people including 18 children, according to Palestinian health officials. The airstrikes also destroyed several buildings, including a school and a mosque.

The strikes came as Israeli forces continued their offensive against militants in Gaza. The Israeli military said it was targeting Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza. However, many of the casualties in the airstrikes have been civilians.

"The reality for kids living there is shocking, honestly," said a UNICEF official in Gaza. "They are living in constant fear of violence, and they are not getting the basic services they need to survive."

The official said that an estimated 600,000 children in Rafah are unable to evacuate safely due to the Israeli airstrikes. The official called on the international community to take action to protect the children of Gaza.

The airstrikes on Rafah were the deadliest single incident in the current Israeli offensive in Gaza. The offensive has now killed more than 1,100 Palestinians, including hundreds of children, according to Palestinian health officials.

The Israeli military said it is doing everything it can to avoid civilian casualties. However, the airstrikes have continued to kill and injure civilians, including women and children.