GAZA, ISRAEL (VINnews) — A massive but gentle whale shark that captivated onlookers off the coasts of Ashdod and Netanya last week was tragically captured and killed by Gazans after reaching the shores of Khan Younis in Gaza, marine authorities confirmed.
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The whale shark, a harmless filter-feeder and the largest fish species in the world, was first spotted along Israel’s Mediterranean coast, drawing fascination from locals and marine enthusiasts. Experts from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority urged the public not to disturb the creature, emphasizing its endangered status and peaceful nature as it migrated north through the Mediterranean.
“This was a rare and awe-inspiring visitor to our shores,” said Dr. Avi Baranes, a marine biologist with the authority. “Whale sharks pose no threat to humans and play a critical role in marine ecosystems. Their presence here was a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our oceans.”
Despite these warnings, the whale shark was reportedly captured and killed after it reached the coast of Khan Younis. Details surrounding the incident remain unclear, but images circulating on social media showed the lifeless creature on the shore, prompting widespread condemnation from environmentalists and ocean lovers across the region.
Gazans tore apart a stranded whale on the beach.
This is cruelty that knows no limits.
But we didn’t hear anything about it from Greta PR Thunberg. pic.twitter.com/Z8UszaoFWo
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 17, 2025
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Yael Cohen, an environmental activist based in Tel Aviv. “This magnificent creature deserved protection, not destruction. Its death is a loss for all of us who care about preserving marine life.”
Whale sharks, listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, face threats from fishing, boat strikes, and habitat degradation. Their migratory patterns occasionally bring them to the eastern Mediterranean, but sightings in Israeli waters are rare.
Authorities in Gaza have not commented on the incident. Meanwhile, marine conservation groups are urging the public to report sightings of endangered species to help monitor and protect them during their migrations.
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