At least nine charity workers were killed and several others injured in an Israeli strike in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, on Saturday, marking the deadliest incident since the ceasefire took effect in January. The Israeli military claimed it had targeted “terrorists” operating a drone, but Hamas accused the Israeli military of committing “a horrific massacre”.

Ismail Thawabta, Director General of Hamas’ Government Media Office, condemned the attack, stating, “The targeting of unarmed civilians, especially those providing humanitarian aid to displaced and homeless individuals, constitutes a blatant violation of international and humanitarian law.”

The Gaza health ministry confirmed that nine people had been killed, including three members of a media team documenting humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. Multiple people with critical injuries were transported to Gaza’s Indonesian Hospital.

The Israeli Defense Forces said it had targeted two “terrorists” operating a drone that posed a threat to IDF troops. However, Hamas and other Palestinian groups have denied that the victims were affiliated with any militant organizations.

The incident has raised concerns about the ongoing violence in Gaza, despite the ceasefire agreement. Israeli military operations inside Gaza have continued, with the IDF citing threats to its troops or Hamas violations. However, there has been a decline in casualties in recent months.