💥 Fatal Explosion at Al‑Baqa Café Close to Gaza Port 

On June 30, 2025, an Israeli airstrike hit the Al-Baqa café, a well-known coastal coffee place situated close to Gaza City’s harbor. The café, popular among families, students, journalists, and remote workers, turned into a site of mass tragedy, with civilians looking for comfort and internet connectivity during the ongoing conflict. 

⚠️ Significant Impact on Civilians and Journalists 

Health authorities and observers indicate that between 30 and 41 individuals lost their lives, with many others sustaining severe injuries. Dr. Mohammad Abu Silmiya, director of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, reported that a minimum of 41 people died and 75 sustained injuries as a result of the attack. 

Independent sources like AP and Reuters verify that “over 30” civilians lost their lives at the café. 

Among the deceased was notable Palestinian photojournalist Ismail Abu Hatab, who reported on frontline incidents during the Gaza conflict. 

His death signified yet another somber landmark—raising the total of journalists slain in Gaza since October 2023 to more than 228. 

Terrifying Scenarios, Eyewitness Accounts 

Observers recount a disordered and horrific scene following the event: 

Thick smoke and the smell of gunpowder filled the air. 

Witnesses described observing “body fragments spread out” and “bodies twisted and charred” throughout the café floor. 

A survivor remembered, “A missile hit. Shrapnel scattered in all directions, and smoke engulfed the area… Every café employee met their end. 

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Graphic visuals show bloodstains, broken furniture, a deck of cards among the wreckage, and mourning relatives gathered outside Shifa Hospital. 

🎯 IDF Reaction: Aiming at Hamas or Humanitarian Misery? 

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the attack targeted Hamas fighters, highlighting that aerial surveillance was conducted “before the strike” to reduce civilian harm. 

The IDF stated that the incident is now being examined. 

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Nonetheless, eyewitnesses vehemently contest the assertion, asserting that the café was crowded with civilians during the attack—characterized as “a spot where individuals sought solace from life’s stresses.” 

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Military sources have not yet supplied proof of Hamas being present within the site. 

🧩 Wider Background of Intensification 

This assault occurs alongside escalated Israeli activities throughout Gaza, matching with wide-scale displacement directives affecting nearly 80% of the area. 

On the same day’s attacks, at least 15 more were killed in various airstrikes in Gaza City, and 11 individuals lost their lives while trying to obtain food assistance in southern Gaza. 

In total, the military escalation on Monday led to more than 60 civilian fatalities, including at educational and humanitarian locations. 

The health ministry of Al-Shifa states that over 56,000 Palestinians have died, primarily civilians, since the conflict started in October 2023. 

🕊️ Appeals for Truce and Humanitarian Imperative 

The café strike is part of a larger surge of worldwide anger and global demands for a ceasefire. Qatar, Egypt, and various mediators are engaging in talks that involve U.S. officials./xenixnews.com Humanitarian organizations further caution that ongoing attacks on civilian gatherings and aid locations are driving Gaza’s populace closer to famine conditions. 

🧭 Overview 

Date & Venue: June 30, 2025, Al‑Baqa café close to Gaza City harbor. 

Casualties: Between 30 and 41 fatalities, many injured; civilians and journalist Ismail Abu Hatab included among the deceased. 

Eyewitness Accounts: Illustrate images of devastation—remnants, contorted bodies, chaos. 

IDF Position: Asserted aimed at Hamas; evaluation in progress. 

Broader Implications: Takes place during increased strikes throughout Gaza and significant evacuations. 

Thick smoke and the smell of gunpowder filled the air. 

This heartbreaking attack highlights the significant human toll of the Gaza conflict and amplifies pressing calls for an instant ceasefire. For families coming together to grieve, common places such as the café have transformed into areas of sorrow—provoking profound inquiries regarding the impact of military operations on civilian existence.