Israeli forces conducted a series of bombings in Gaza City between 1:02 AM and 1:16 AM UTC on September 16th, 2025, resulting in casualties and significant damage. Activist Hamza Al-Masri reported that three houses belonging to the Zaqout, Hamad, and Ashour families were targeted near the public security junction in the northwest of the city, leading to a large number of martyrs, injured, and missing people. Separately, journalist Muhannad Qishtha stated that children and five people were rescued following the bombing of a house belonging to the Masoud family near Al-Shawa Square, with ongoing searches for individuals trapped under rubble. These recent strikes follow earlier operations in the northwest of Gaza City and Al-Bureij camp, which occurred between 12:16 AM and 1:01 AM UTC. During that period, ambulance crews responded to a targeted tent at Abu Hamisa Northern School in Al-Bureij camp, as reported by Al-Masri. The earlier operations also included targeting an area northwest of Gaza City near the public security junction between 12:02 AM and 12:16 AM UTC. Palestinian sources indicated that the bombing of the Masoud family house near Al-Shawa Square resulted in martyrs and injuries. The extent of casualties from the targeting of the Zaqout, Hamad, and Ashour family homes near the public security junction is still being assessed, with reports of significant damage to neighboring structures. Emergency services were actively involved in rescue efforts throughout the reporting window. These events occur amidst ongoing political tensions, with Hamas having previously blamed Prime Minister Netanyahu for jeopardizing hostage returns and criticizing the Trump administration's stance. Families of abductees have also voiced frustration regarding the safety of captives.
