Gaza Crisis: Escalation, Humanitarian Impact, and Global Reactions
Published on May 18, 2025
Image via Wikimedia Commons – Public Domain
Mass Casualties and Hospital Closures
Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of over 130 Palestinians overnight, bringing the total death toll to more than 53,000 since October 2023. The Indonesian Hospital, a key medical facility in northern Gaza, has been rendered non-functional due to the ongoing bombardments.
The World Food Programme warns of an impending famine as the blockade continues to prevent essential supplies from reaching the 2.3 million residents of Gaza.
Sources: Financial Times, Al Jazeera
Military Operations Intensify
The Israeli military has announced the commencement of a "widescale military operation" aimed at dismantling Hamas's infrastructure. This operation includes extensive ground assaults and airstrikes, particularly targeting areas like Deir al-Balah.
Source: New York Post
Calls for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has called for an immediate ceasefire and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. During the Arab League Summit in Baghdad, he emphasized the urgent need to address the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the region.
Source: Amwal Al Ghad
Condemnation of Journalist Killings
Hamas has condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza, labeling it as a deliberate attempt to silence the media. The recent death of journalist Hassan Eslaih during an Israeli airstrike has drawn international criticism and raised concerns about press freedom in conflict zones.
Source: Mehr News Agency
International Protests and Solidarity
A group of Italian politicians and activists held a protest at Egypt's border with Gaza, denouncing what they described as a "massacre" and calling for an immediate end to the violence. They carried signs reading "Stop genocide now" and "End illegal occupation."
Source: Al-Monitor
UNICEF Warns of Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
UNICEF has issued a dire warning about the increasing risk of famine, disease, and death among children in Gaza. With over 71,000 children and 17,000 mothers facing acute malnutrition, the organization emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian intervention.
Source: UNICEF