French diplomat killed in Gaza shelling
Photo: French diplomat killed in Gaza bombings (Getty Images)
In the city of Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, a French diplomat was killed as a result of Israeli bombardment, reports the press service of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the bombardment, the diplomat sought refuge in the residence of one of his colleagues from the French Consulate General, along with two other colleagues and many members of their families.
As a result of the shelling on Wednesday, December 13, the diplomat sustained serious injuries, and numerous casualties occurred.
"Our colleague had been working for France since 2002. Part of his family managed to evacuate from Gaza to France as part of the evacuation plan developed by the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, which included French citizens present in Gaza, employees of the French Institute, and their dependents," the press service added.
Israel and Hamas conflict
In early October, Hamas militants invaded Israel, leading to the initiation of Operation "Iron Swords" by the Israeli military. On November 24, a temporary ceasefire between Tel Aviv and the militants began for the release of prisoners. By December 1, hostilities resumed, as Israel claimed a breach of the ceasefire terms by Hamas.
On December 14, the White House stated that the United States wants the war between Israel and Hamas to end as soon as possible. On the same day, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the war might last for several more months.
