A deadly airstrike on a cafe in Gaza City has killed dozens of people, including a young artist and a photographer. The attack occurred at around 3pm on Tuesday, just as the victims were enjoying a rare moment of peace.
The al-Baqa cafe, which was founded nearly 40 years ago, had become a hub for Palestinians to escape the war-torn territory and socialize freely. The cafe’s wooden slatted roof provided a serene atmosphere, with patrons seated at plastic chairs and tables.
However, the peaceful scene was shattered when witnesses described a massive explosion, flames, and a plume of ash-grey smoke rising into the air. Many were killed or injured in the blast, which also destroyed the cafe.
Among those killed were 35-year-old Nour al-Husari, who had taken her two daughters to the cafe for some fresh air, and Amna al-Salmi, a young artist who was involved in initiatives to bring Palestinian art to an international audience. Ismail Abu Hatab, a 32-year-old photographer and filmmaker, also lost his life.
The Israeli military has said that it struck several Hamas targets in the northern Gaza Strip before the airstrike, but many question how the cafe could be targeted despite its reputation as a peaceful gathering place.
The attack is the latest in a series of airstrikes that have devastated Gaza City, killing hundreds and injuring dozens more. The war in Gaza, which began after a surprise attack by Hamas militants in October 2023, has claimed over 56,500 civilian lives so far.
Medical officials say that between 24 and 36 people were killed in the cafe airstrike, with dozens more injured. The situation remains dire, with many Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities due to the ongoing conflict.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/01/the-scenes-were-beyond-anything-imaginable-busy-gaza-seafront-cafe-devastated-by-airstrike