The IDF struck more than 100 targets throughout Gaza on Tuesday as part of its mission in Operation Protective Edge. At least 15 Palestinian Authority Arabs were killed in the attacks, including several terrorists.
Also among the casualties were at least two children and 25 wounded in an incident that indeed was what an Arab terrorist would call a ‘celebration of death’ rather than life.
The terrorists have made a point of using their civilians as human shields, and those who live in Gaza have for the most part been willing volunteers in the effort.
Seven people – including the two children – were killed in a house in Khan Yunis belonging to the Kawara family. The head of household is a key member of Hamas and Israeli air force pilots at first fired a small mortar at the roof to warn residents they were planning to attack, and tell them to flee before a second, full-force attack ensued.
The casualties occurred during the second attack — when occupants instead gathered as human shields on the roof itself, hoping their presence would deter Israeli fighter pilots.
The IDF is preparing for a “long and forceful” operation, with a call up of some 40,000 reservists authorized by the Cabinet on Tuesday. Overnight Monday, the IDF struck at least 50 targets, including four houses used as command bases by Hamas terrorist officials.