In brief
A surge of violence in Gaza has claimed the lives of at least ten Palestinians due to airstrikes and clashes between Hamas forces and an Israeli-backed militia. Local sources report that the conflict erupted when militia members set up a checkpoint and were attacked by Hamas security personnel, prompting Israeli drone strikes in response. The situation remains tense, with many injured and critical conditions reported at a local hospital. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating a ceasefire that was established six months ago.
At least 10 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes and fighting between Hamas and an Israel-backed Palestinian militia in central Gaza, local sources say.
The strikes reportedly targeted Hamas security personnel who had clashed with members of the militia east of Maghazi refugee camp. It is not clear how many of those died in the strikes or in the fighting on the ground.
A spokesperson for al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah said the bodies of 10 people from the scene had been brought there. Dozens of other people were wounded and some were in a critical condition, they added.
There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military or Hamas.
The exact sequence of Monday's events remains unclear.
However, witnesses said members of the Israel-backed militia set up a checkpoint east of Maghazi, where they came under attack from Hamas security personnel, triggering clashes.
The witnesses added that Israeli drones intervened to support the militia, carrying out strikes on Hamas personnel in three locations.
Israel and Hamas have accused each other of repeatedly violating the ceasefire which they agreed almost six months ago.
At least 723 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza in Israeli attacks since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.
The Israeli military has said five of its soldiers have been killed in attacks by Palestinian groups over the same period.
