In a harrowing incident in northern Gaza City, witnesses recount an Israeli double tap strike that killed a child and a medic. The attack, which occurred on Salah Khalaf Street, has drawn international condemnation and raised questions about the conduct of military operations in densely populated areas.
The Attack on Salah Khalaf Street
Mohammad Abdul Zinati, a teenager, was walking home from school through the rubble of Salah Khalaf Street when he stopped at a supermarket where friends had gathered. Shortly before 3:30 pm, an explosion tore through the air. Mohammad and others rushed into the street to see what had happened. When the smoke cleared, they saw a man lying bleeding on the dusty road. He was badly wounded but still alive, calling for help. Mohammad ran towards him, unaware of the approaching Israeli drone. Within seconds, the drone released a glide bomb, designed for high accuracy. The munition detonated just metres from the teenager, and a second blast killed him.
What is a Double Tap Strike?
A double tap strike is a military tactic where a second strike targets the same location shortly after the first, often targeting first responders and rescuers. This tactic has been criticized for causing civilian casualties, including medical personnel. In this incident, the first strike injured a man, later identified as a paramedic, and the second strike killed the child who attempted to help.
Witness Accounts
Tamer Lubbad, a witness who filmed the attack, said, “We heard a loud explosion and tried to make our way to the scene to find out what had happened. We found a man lying on the ground. He was still alive and calling for help.” The footage was verified by The Guardian, which also spoke to weapons experts. The experts noted that the drone used a glide bomb, which allows operators to identify and strike targets with high precision.
Impact on Civilians and Medical Personnel
The killing of a child and a medic underscores the devastating impact of such strikes on civilians. According to Gaza’s civil defense, the paramedic was killed in the second blast. This incident is part of a pattern of attacks that have killed children in Gaza. The use of double tap strikes has been condemned by human rights organizations as a violation of international humanitarian law.

Comparison of Strike Types
| Strike Type | Description | Risk to Civilians |
|---|---|---|
| Single Strike | One targeted attack on a specific location. | Moderate |
| Double Tap Strike | Two strikes on the same location, second targeting rescuers. | High |
| Precision Strike | Use of guided munitions to minimize collateral damage. | Low (if accurate) |
Key Takeaways
- Double tap strikes deliberately target first responders, leading to higher civilian casualties.
- Witnesses and video footage confirm the use of a drone-launched glide bomb in this attack.
- International law prohibits attacks on medical personnel and civilians.
- The incident highlights the dangers faced by children in conflict zones.
FAQ
What is a double tap strike?
What is a double tap strike?
A double tap strike is a military tactic where a second strike targets the same location shortly after the first, often targeting first responders and rescuers.
Who was killed in the Gaza double tap strike?
Who was killed in the Gaza double tap strike?
A child, Mohammad Abdul Zinati, and a paramedic were killed in the double tap strike on Salah Khalaf Street in Gaza City.
What weapons were used in the attack?
What weapons were used in the attack?
The attack involved a drone-launched glide bomb, designed for high accuracy, according to weapons experts.
