Building collapse kills 21

A damaged building housing 100 displaced families collapsed in Gaza City, killing at least 21 people including 11 children. Rescuers are digging through rubble with bare hands.

Previously hit by strikes

The multistorey building had been struck by Israeli attacks during the war, badly weakening its structure. It fell onto tents housing displaced families beside it.

Voices heard under rubble

Rescuers recovered bodies of five children and took 25 injured to hospital. Medical sources said they could hear voices of people still trapped beneath the debris.

“We are still hearing voices from under the rubble, so there is still hope to find people.”

No heavy machinery available

Palestinian and UN officials blame Israeli restrictions for the lack of equipment. Israel says restrictions prevent machinery from reaching militant groups.

“There are actually people that are digging with their bare hands. We need to prepare [for more deaths].”

2,000 damaged buildings across Gaza

The collapse highlights danger facing tens of thousands living in an estimated 2,000 buildings damaged by Israeli airstrikes. Similar incidents have occurred repeatedly.

Nowhere else to go

Families stay in damaged buildings because no other shelter is available. Soaring rents and cost of vacant land make finding safer accommodation increasingly difficult.

“Yes, we are afraid, but where can we go? This is better than staying out on the street.”

Strikes continue despite ceasefire

Israeli strikes on Gaza have continued despite the ceasefire. 1,369 Palestinians have been killed since the fragile ceasefire took effect on 11 October 2025.

Israel plans to resume war

Defense Minister Israel Katz said it's only a matter of time before Israel resumes full-scale war and moves to force out Gaza's Palestinian population.

73,783 killed since war began

At least 73,783 Palestinians have been killed and 174,738 wounded since the war began, according to Gaza's health ministry.