Deadly Israeli attacks in Gaza result in the loss of 36 more lives, raising the total count of starvation-related deaths to 239.
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The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians in the Gaza Strip, with recent airstrikes resulting in numerous casualties.
Casualties in Gaza
In the latest incident, at least 36 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Thursday. This tragic event brings the total number of fatalities in Gaza since the war began in October 2023 to nearly 61,800, as reported by Gaza's Health Ministry.
Famine-Related Deaths and Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has led to severe famine in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel's blockade. Tragically, reports indicate that 1,373 Palestinians have died while seeking food, highlighting the extreme humanitarian conditions.
The crisis has left over two million Palestinians, half of whom are children, without sufficient access to water, food, or medical care. Organizations have called for immediate action to end the blockade and enhance aid delivery.
Current Situation and Future Concerns
Despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in January 2025, humanitarian challenges persist. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing concerns about the blockade's impact on civilians.
There are growing concerns about Israel's measures affecting humanitarian operations, including threats to ban major aid organizations. This could further exacerbate the crisis.
International pressure for a lasting resolution and increased humanitarian aid remains crucial. Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
The Israeli military has been accused of opening fire on Palestinians waiting for aid, resulting in additional casualties. Eight more people were killed and dozens injured when Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinians waiting for aid near the Zikim distribution point in the northwestern Gaza Strip. Sixteen people were killed and others injured when the Israeli military opened fire toward civilians waiting for aid delivery in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
Looking Ahead
Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice over its military campaign in the enclave. The court is investigating allegations of disproportionate use of force, destruction of infrastructure, and denial of humanitarian aid.
In the past 24 hours, four more people have died of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza, bringing the total number of famine-related deaths to 239, including 106 children. The situation in Gaza remains dire, and the international community must take action to alleviate the suffering of its people.
[1] Al Jazeera, "Gaza death toll passes 60,000 as Israel-Hamas conflict continues," 2024. [2] The Lancet, "The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza: a call for urgent action," 2024. [3] Middle East Eye, "Israel faces genocide case at the International Court of Justice over Gaza campaign," 2025. [4] Gaza Health Ministry, "Gaza death toll reaches 50,810," 2025. [5] Amnesty International, "Israel: End blockade and allow aid to reach Gaza," 2025.
- The escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza raises concerns about both the health and general news of the region, as ongoing violence results in a high number of casualties, causing a surge in demand for medical care.
- In addition to war-and-conflicts, the severity of the Gaza crisis has resulted in a rise in crime-and-justice incidents, with Israel's military accused of opening fire on Palestinians seeking aid, causing further loss of life and injury.
- The ongoing political tension and defense policies between Israel and Gaza, compounded by the blockade, are creating dire conditions, leading to a continued risk of accidents in which civilians suffer, particularly with regards to access to water, food, and medical care.
