Israel carried out airstrikes against the Gaza Strip early on Tuesday.
According to Palestinian authorities, at least twelve people have been killed, among whom three are described as leaders within the Palestinian armed group Islamic Jihad. The organization, which is labeled a terrorist by, among others, Israel, the EU and the United States, confirms the deaths.
Women and children
Several women and children are said to be among the dead, and around 20 people are also said to have been injured.
Ismail Haniyeh, who heads Palestinian Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip, said in a statement that the attack would only fuel opposition to Israel.