Hamas Condemns Israeli Strike on Lebanon Refugee Camp
ISTANBUL – The Palestinian group Hamas on Friday rejected Israeli claims that a recent airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in southern Lebanon targeted one of its command centers. Instead, the group described the attack as a “crime against civilians” and a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.
Dispute Over Target
In an official statement, Hamas said the Israeli army carried out a “brutal aggression” inside the camp, which lies near the city of Sidon. The group stated that the strike killed and injured civilians living in the densely populated area.
Furthermore, Hamas denied Israeli allegations that the building served as one of its facilities. According to the statement, the targeted structure belonged to a joint security force responsible for maintaining order within the camp.
The Israeli military, however, said it struck a Hamas command center in the Ain al-Hilweh area.
Casualties and Damage
Earlier reports from the Palestinian Red Crescent in Ain al-Hilweh said two people were killed and three others were injured in the drone strike.
Meanwhile, National News Agency reported that the attack hit the Hittin neighborhood inside the camp, causing damage to the targeted building and nearby structures.
Calls for International Action
Hamas held the Israeli government fully responsible for the consequences of the strike. In addition, the group urged the international community, as well as Arab and Islamic countries, to take immediate steps to halt what it described as ongoing attacks and to ensure protection for Palestinians.
The latest incident follows a similar Israeli strike in November 2025 in the same area, which left at least 13 people dead and several others injured. At that time, the Israeli army said it targeted Hamas members. However, Hamas claimed the strike hit teenagers gathered on a sports field and described it as an assault on civilians.
Wider Context
The recent strike occurred amid continued tensions following a ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024. Since then, Lebanese officials have reported repeated Israeli violations that have resulted in casualties.
In addition, Israel continues to control five Lebanese hilltops captured during the latest conflict, along with other territories it has held for decades.
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