Israel airstrike kills Palestinian children while playing football near a Gaza hospital

In a heartbreaking incident, a devastating Israeli airstrike struck a group of children playing with a ball near a hospital in Khan Younis , leaving a devastating toll of casualties.

The indiscriminate attack, which took place in the midst of escalating tensions in the region, resulted in numerous casualties among the children and has sparked international outrage.

The tragic incident occurred in the vicinity of Khan Younis in Gaza, a region already reeling from the impact of ongoing hostilities.

The exact number of casualties is still being assessed, but reports indicate that there are several fatalities, and many more are injured.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltration into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" to ease the "epic human suffering."

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.