Daijiworld Media Network – Gaza
Gaza, May 17: More than 250 people have died in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza since Thursday morning, marking one of the deadliest phases of violence since a truce collapsed in March, local health officials reported. The strikes, especially intense in northern Gaza, have triggered a worsening humanitarian crisis amid mounting international concern.
US President Donald Trump voiced support for aiding Palestinians, acknowledging the severe hunger in Gaza. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I think a lot of good things are going to happen over the next month... We have to help, also, out the Palestinians. You know, a lot of people are starving in Gaza, so we have to look at both sides.”
The Israeli military announced ‘extensive strikes’ as part of a renewed offensive, with a ground operation expected soon. Friday’s bombardments mainly targeted northern Gaza, where dozens were killed overnight, according to Gaza health ministry spokesperson Khalil al-Deqran.
Since the truce’s collapse in March, Israel has intensified its military buildup along Gaza’s border despite global calls for a ceasefire and an end to the blockade. The blockade, ongoing for over two months, has stopped food, fuel, and medical supplies from entering Gaza—the longest closure in the region’s history.
The humanitarian situation is dire. Gaza’s health ministry reports about 60,000 children showing signs of malnutrition. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns that malnutrition is worsening, with doctors running out of essential medicines and famine looming as a real threat.
Israel’s stated aim remains the elimination of Hamas, the militant group responsible for the deadly October 7, 2023 attack that killed roughly 1,200 Israelis and took about 250 hostages.
Since then, Israeli military operations have caused massive destruction in Gaza, with over 53,000 reported killed and nearly the entire population displaced. Humanitarian organizations describe the blockade and military campaign as creating an unprecedented crisis.
In Beit Lahiya, leaflets dropped by Israel urged residents to evacuate immediately, signaling escalating ground operations. The leaflet message instructed: "Leave southwards immediately," applying to those in tents, buildings, or shelters.
The escalating conflict and humanitarian emergency in Gaza remain under close global scrutiny amid urgent calls for aid and peace.