In a devastating development, Hamas has accused Israel of bombing Gaza's renowned Great Omari Mosque, leaving the landmark site reduced to rubble. The incident has ignited widespread outrage among Palestinians, who have called for international intervention to protect historic buildings in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Footage and images shared on social media by the Palestinian group on Friday displayed the catastrophic destruction of the medieval mosque, which was not only the largest but also the oldest in Gaza City. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Gaza expressed deep concern over the targeting and destruction of archaeological sites, emphasizing the urgent need for action to preserve the region's significant civilizational and cultural heritage.

According to the ministry's estimates, a staggering 104 mosques have been razed since the start of the Israeli assault on Gaza on October 7. The images of the Great Omari Mosque in ruins have struck a painful chord among Palestinians who shared memories of playing and praying within its historic walls. One local resident, 45-year-old Ahmed Nemer, accused Israel of attempting to eradicate their cherished memories.

The destruction extends beyond the Great Omari Mosque. Hamas also stated that the Othman bin Qashqar Mosque in Gaza City and the last remaining Turkish-style bath in the territory, Hammam al-Samara, have been targeted by air raids. Moreover, three churches, including the 1,000-year-old Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius, the oldest active church in Gaza, have reportedly been destroyed.

Israel's relentless bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip has led to a catastrophic loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure, including entire city districts. Israeli authorities claim that around 1,200 people have been killed since the start of the conflict, while health authorities in Gaza put the number of Palestinian casualties at over 17,000.

This latest assault has only worsened the plight of Gaza's architectural heritage, which has suffered during previous conflicts between Israel and Hamas. Heritage for Peace, a non-governmental organization focused on preserving cultural heritage, has identified a total of 195 architectural heritage sites in Gaza. A recent survey conducted by the organization revealed that 104 sites have already been partially damaged by the ongoing conflict.

Israel has repeatedly justified its targeting of mosques, schools, and other civilian infrastructure, claiming that these buildings are being used by Hamas to shield its fighters. However, Palestinians argue that these attacks deliberately aim to erase their history and cultural identity.

The destruction of Gaza's historic Omari Mosque has intensified calls for urgent international action. Palestinians are urging UNESCO to step in and protect Gaza's remaining historic buildings, as they fear the irreversible loss of their cultural heritage. It is hoped that international efforts will be intensified to preserve these important symbols of Palestinian history, identity, and resilience.