Israel Destroys 750-Year-Old Mosque in Gaza with Airstrike

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International Desk: Israel has reportedly destroyed a 750-year-old mosque in Gaza with an airstrike. The video of the attack has circulated online and has been verified by Al Jazeera for authenticity.

The historic mosque, built in the 13th century, was destroyed by an Israeli missile strike on Tuesday (16 September). Al Jazeera did not provide further details on whether there were any casualties resulting from the attack.

The mosque, named Al-Aybaki Mosque after Sheikh Abdullah Al-Aybaki, was constructed by the Mamluks, the rulers of Egypt in the 12th century, and completed in the late 13th century. It was considered a symbol of pride for the people of Gaza.

Gaza City has been experiencing its deadliest attacks in two years, with intense bombing and gunfire from Israeli forces forcing thousands to flee their homes. Many fear they may never return to the ruins of their destroyed houses.

On Tuesday, following the airstrikes, Israeli forces entered the city with tanks and infantry. At least 91 Palestinians were killed that day. Health authorities reported that Israeli forces also targeted vehicles attempting to escape via the coastal road.

At least 17 buildings were destroyed in the city, including the 750-year-old Al-Aybaki Mosque in the East Tuffah area. Footage of the mosque’s destruction has circulated widely on social media.

Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, tweeted that “Gaza is burning.” Human rights organization Euro-Med Monitor reported that Israeli forces are using at least 15 explosive-laden drones, each capable of destroying up to 20 buildings.

Yesterday, the United Nations investigation commission formally stated that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Despite this, the brutality in the Palestinian territory continues. So far, Israeli aggression has killed over 65,000 Palestinians and injured nearly 200,000. Reports indicate that the Israeli leadership has a “specific intent” to destroy the Palestinian population.