At least four people, including two children, were killed in an Israeli strike in northern Gaza, while Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed Saudi-backed forces carried out dozens of airstrikes in several areas.

Two children were among at least four people killed in a fresh Israeli strike on Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, according to Shifa Hospital, where the bodies were taken.

The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strike carried out early Thursday.

In a statement, however, the military said its forces on Wednesday struck Hamas weapons storage facilities in three areas across Gaza.

Israel has previously said its forces conduct strikes in response to perceived threats against its troops amid the fragile ceasefire that has been in place since October.

Meanwhile, Al-Masirah TV, which is controlled by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, reported that Saudi-backed forces carried out 40 airstrikes in recent hours in Taiz, Jawf, Hodeida and Marib provinces.

The claim could not be independently verified by The Associated Press, while there was no immediate comment from the Saudi-backed forces.

Fighting between the Houthis and Yemeni government forces has intensified this week, raising concerns about a major escalation. The Houthis have also attacked oil facilities and utilities in neighboring Saudi Arabia.