Arabic version: الغارات الإسرائيلية تودي بحياة خمسة فلسطينيين في غزة

Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip have killed at least five Palestinians on May 17, 2026. Among the victims were three charity workers who were killed in an attack on a community kitchen in Deir el-Balah. Reports indicate that additional casualties occurred in Khan Younis and Beit Lahiya.

According to Al Jazeera, the assault on the central city of Deir el-Balah highlights a troubling trend where Israel appears to be targeting not only individuals but also organizations that serve the local community. This has raised concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers in the region.

In response to the attacks, Hamas condemned the actions, labeling them as a “deliberate war crime” and part of what they describe as an ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. They criticized the lack of international response, claiming it enables further violence and disregard for international laws.

Statistics from Gaza’s Health Ministry indicate that since October 7, 2023, Israel’s military actions have resulted in the deaths of at least 72,760 Palestinians, with 871 fatalities reported since a ceasefire was initiated last October. The Israeli military maintains control over approximately 60 percent of Gaza’s territory, marked by a designated buffer zone. On the same day, the military reported killing a person in this zone, asserting without evidence that the individual was armed and posed a threat.

Additionally, the Israeli army announced the death of a Hamas commander named Bahaa Baroud, though there was no immediate confirmation from the group regarding this claim.