Jerusalem/Gaza, August 19, 2025: Relentless Israeli bombardment and a deepening humanitarian crisis have killed more than 62,000 Palestinians in Gaza since the war began nearly two years ago, according to the territory’s Health Ministry.
Israeli forces have intensified attacks on Gaza City, pounding residential areas with heavy artillery, drones, and fighter jets. At least 30 people were killed on Monday alone, including 14 struck while seeking food aid. Among the victims was journalist Islam al-Koumi, who died in an airstrike on the al-Sabra neighbourhood.
Local sources reported widespread displacement as families fled bombed-out homes, while many others remained trapped by poverty or fear. “We can see how Israel is using heavy artillery, fighter jets and drones to destroy what’s left of residential homes,” Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum said, describing the devastation as “extremely overwhelming.”
Displaced residents say moving south is nearly impossible. “I need nearly $900 to move – I don’t even have a dollar,” said Bilal Abu Sitta. Others voiced distrust of Israeli assurances of safety. “We don’t want Israel to give us anything,” said Noaman Hamad. “We want them to allow us back to the homes we fled.”
Healthcare facilities have also been targeted, compounding the crisis for families sheltering in ruins, makeshift tents, or overcrowded classrooms. Gaza’s Health Ministry confirmed that five more Palestinians, including two children, died from malnutrition in the past 24 hours, raising the toll of starvation-related deaths to 263, including 112 children.
The World Food Programme warned that over 320,000 children under five in Gaza face acute malnutrition, as families survive on meagre rations with little nutritional value. UNRWA said that instead of preparing for school, Gaza’s children now queue for food and water in overcrowded shelters.
Amid the destruction, a faint prospect of respite emerged as Hamas announced its approval of a ceasefire proposal brokered by Qatar and Egypt. According to informed sources, the draft deal includes a 60-day truce, the release of half the Israeli captives held in Gaza, and the freedom of an unspecified number of Palestinians in Israeli jails.
