Israel Launches Deadly Strikes on Gaza, Saying Militants Attacked Its Soldiers

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by David M. Halbfinger and Natan OdenheimerFebruary 4, 2026 at 07:50 PM

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On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Israel launched airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, killing at least 21 Palestinians, including children, after Palestinian militants allegedly attacked Israeli soldiers, critically wounding one. The Israeli military stated the strikes targeted militants, including Bilal Abu Assi, identified as a commander involved in the October 7, 2023 attacks, though conflicting reports suggest he may have been killed previously. The military expressed regret for civilian casualties. Both Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the fragile truce, which was in place nearly four months. The violence occurred shortly after the reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Khan Younis 40% Egypt 40% Nir Oz 50% Rafah border crossing 50% October 7, 2023 attacks 60% Hamas ×260% Bilal Abu Assi ×570% Palestinians ×370% Gaza Strip ×280% Israel ×990%

Keywords

israeli airstrikes 90% gaza strip 80% palestinian militants 70% civilian casualties 60% cease-fire violation 60% israel-hamas war 50% rafah border crossing 50% bilal abu assi 40%