In a controversial military operation to rescue four hostages held in central Gaza, Israel's actions have drawn condemnation from global leaders. According to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, 274 Palestinians were killed in the raid, making it the deadliest day in the enclave in six months. However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) dispute these figures, estimating the casualties to be "under 100." Due to the lack of international media access, CNN cannot independently verify the death toll.

Eyewitness accounts and video footage have shed light on the horrifying scenes that unfolded during the operation in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Palestinian survivors risked their lives to transport wounded individuals to hospitals in central Gaza. One injured man, with bloodstained hands and a sling on his arm, explained that aid organizations were unable to enter, and thus, he and his friend took it upon themselves to help the injured.

Reports from the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital revealed the heart-wrenching scenes in the aftermath of the attack. CNN footage captured people carrying bloodied children, while the emergency room was filled with injured individuals, and loved ones bid farewell to those who had tragically lost their lives.

Residents who experienced the violence firsthand described the attack as "hell on earth," with the strikes hitting while people were sleeping. The aftermath of the assault prompted volunteers to rescue victims, even as dogs fed on human remains. The Gaza Ministry of Health reported that Saturday marked the deadliest day since mid-December, with 283 people killed, bringing the total death toll during the current war in Gaza to 37,084, as stated by the ministry.

The response from the United States administration, which aided in intelligence gathering for the operation, acknowledged the loss of civilian lives. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed his sorrow, noting that "innocent people were tragically killed." While Hamas claimed that additional hostages died in the operation, Sullivan stated that this has not been verified or confirmed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel hailed the operation as heroic and vowed to continue efforts to recover any remaining hostages.

The successful rescue of the four hostages has brought immense relief to their families. Orit Meir, the mother of one of the freed hostages, expressed her joy, stating, "I couldn't stop hugging him." She thanked the Israeli military and government for their efforts but highlighted that dozens of captives still remained in Gaza, urging the government to secure their release.

As the dust settles after the deadly Israeli operation, questions remain regarding the precise casualty figures and the impact on civilians caught in the crossfire. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging restraint and a peaceful resolution to end the conflict.