Israeli Strikes Escalate in Gaza amid Humanitarian Crisis
The Israeli military intensified strikes across multiple areas in Gaza, pushing the enclave’s fragile humanitarian system toward collapse. Bombardments hit eastern Gaza City, northern Gaza, and southern areas including civilian sites like the Martyr Jamal Abu Hamad Mosque. The Khaza'a municipality called their town a “completely devastated disaster zone” due to relentless shelling and destruction.
Gaza officials reported a looming breakdown of public services with mass displacement and failure of waste and water systems. More than 250,000 tonnes of waste have accumulated in central Gaza, with clean water becoming nearly unavailable. Fuel and equipment shortages threaten sewage treatment and waste collection.
UNRWA's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned that famine can only be averted by urgent political action. UN agencies report severe shortages of essential supplies amid restricted access. Ajith Sunghay of the UN Human Rights Office criticized the U.S.-Israeli aid mechanism as humiliating and unsustainable.
On the ground, clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups including Hamas' Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades and Islamic Jihad’s al-Quds Brigades have resulted in casualties and continued shelling of military targets.
Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, operating with depleted technical options amid power outages and damage to key generators. Health officials warn the system could collapse without urgent fuel and medical supplies.
Diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire continue amid stalled negotiations. Former U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a ceasefire deal could be imminent, involving prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid phases. Egypt reiterated its mediation role and condemned the escalation as violations of international law, calling for safe aid access and civilian protection.
Source: Daily News Egypt