The toll from a devastating building collapse in Gaza has climbed to 20 fatalities, including five children, as rescue crews continue to search through the ruins. According to the territory's civil defence agency, the residential structure gave way on Wednesday after suffering significant structural damage during prior Israeli military strikes.

Mahmoud Bassal, a spokesperson for the rescue force, confirmed that responders have recovered the bodies of the victims while dozens of others remain trapped beneath the wreckage. As the search operation continues, the situation remains dire for the families of those still missing, with officials warning that the final death count could increase as debris is cleared.