At least 22 Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed as Israeli airstrikes continue to target the besieged Gaza Strip for the third consecutive day.

Israeli airstrikes hit different locations in Gaza on Thursday, putting the total number of Palestinian deaths over the past three days to at least 78.

Deadly attacks were carried out in the city of Khan Yunis and the Nusseirat refugee camp in central Gaza.

Nearly 80 Palestinians have been killed and over 500 others wounded since Israel launched its so-called “Operation Protective Edge” against the besieged strip on July 8.

Tens of Palestinian homes have been completely destroyed, while over 1,500 others have been partially damaged.

President of the Palestinian National Unity Government Mahmoud Abbas has accused Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip in order to protect its illegal settlement project.

Gaza has been under Israeli illegal siege since 2007. The blockade has caused a decline in the standards of living, unprecedented levels of unemployment, and unrelenting poverty.

NJF/NJF