The Israeli military has launched an investigation into the devastating blaze that followed an airstrike on a compound in Gaza on Sunday, which claimed the lives of over 40 civilians. The probe aims to determine the cause of the fire, which has sparked international outrage and deepened global isolation against Israel over the war in Gaza.
According to Chief Military Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the investigation is exploring all possible explanations, including the possibility that munitions stored near the compound may have caught fire as a result of the airstrike.
Hagari stated that the 17-kilogram munitions used in the strike were likely too small to have caused such a massive fire, suggesting that other factors may have contributed to the blaze.
The spokesperson revealed that footage of the incident indicates there were secondary explosions following the initial strike, which may have played a role in the spread of the fire.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from the international community, coming just days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt its operations in Rafah.
Hagari defended the Israeli military’s actions, stating that the operation targeted two senior Hamas operatives in a compound where no civilians were present. However, he acknowledged that “due to unforeseen circumstances, a fire ignited, tragically taking the lives of Gazans nearby.”
The spokesperson emphasized that several measures were taken before the operation to avoid civilian casualties, but the outcome was still devastating.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Israeli military is working to determine the exact cause of the blaze and identify those responsible.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for an end to the conflict in Gaza, with many nations and organizations urging Israel to halt its military operations and work towards a peaceful resolution.
As the investigation continues, the international community remains vigilant, seeking answers and justice for the victims of the tragic incident in Rafah.
