ISRAEL HITS HAMAS

An Israeli air strike targeted a Hamas compound in central Gaza City killing one and wounding at least 45 people, adding a new layer of violence to Palestinian infighting that has paralysed the Gaza Strip.

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June 17, 2022

An Israeli air strike targeted a Hamas compound in central Gaza City killing one and wounding at least 45 people, adding a new layer of violence to Palestinian infighting that has paralysed the Gaza Strip.

The strike came a day after 22 Palestinians were killed across Gaza City in the most widespread factional fighting in nearly a year between Hamas and Fatah.

Hamas said the target was an administration building of its elite bodyguards unit. The two-story structure is normally filled with Hamas personnel. In a text message sent to reporters, Hamas military wing spokesman Abu Obeida vowed revenge against Israel

After the blast, a large crowd gathered at the site, frantically digging through the rubble and pulling out the wounded. One woman, her white robe covered in blood, was carried away from the area.

The Israeli army confirmed it carried out the air strike, which came after Israel threatened “harsh” action in response to repeated Palestinian rocket attacks. It was the second such air strike in two days.