Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in over 90 deaths in just two days, according to the health ministry controlled by Hamas. This surge in violence has particularly affected the southern city of Khan Younis, where 15 people were killed overnight, including women and children. Reports indicate that at least 11 of the deceased were seeking shelter in a tent located in the al Mawasi humanitarian zone, which is home to many displaced individuals.
In nearby Rafah, four more people lost their lives in separate strikes, including a mother and her daughter. These tragic incidents highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the situation has deteriorated significantly since the escalation of conflict in October 2023.
Israel has not publicly commented on the latest strikes but has expressed intentions to intensify its military operations in Gaza. The Israeli government aims to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages and to disarm the group. The blockade of Gaza has restricted the flow of food and essential goods, exacerbating the already dire living conditions for the population.
The United Nations has warned that nearly all of Gaza’s two million residents now depend on one million meals provided daily by charity kitchens. The World Food Programme has noted that rising prices in local markets make food unaffordable for many. The UN’s humanitarian office has labeled the current situation in Gaza as the worst crisis since the recent hostilities began.
The conflict began when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals. In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed over 51,000 Palestinians, a figure that includes both civilians and combatants, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Hamas is currently holding 59 hostages, with 24 believed to be alive. The group has stated that it will only release them in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners, a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and a lasting truce.
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, from the World Health Organization, has urged the new U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, to advocate for lifting the blockade on Gaza so that essential medicines and aid can enter the region. Huckabee recently visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem, where he placed a note he said was from U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasizing efforts to bring home the remaining Israeli hostages.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with many lives at stake amid escalating violence and a growing need for international assistance.