Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 63 Palestinians across Gaza, just hours after the military announced daily “humanitarian pauses.” These pauses, set from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in selected areas, were intended to allow aid convoys to move safely. But residents report that strikes resumed even in designated “safe zones” such as Gaza City and Deir el-Balah.
Witnesses say a bakery in one of these areas was bombed, raising concerns over the effectiveness of Israel’s promises. Al Jazeera reporters on the ground confirmed that the attacks continued during supposed pause periods.
The renewed bombardment comes amid growing global alarm over Gaza’s worsening humanitarian situation. The hunger crisis has intensified, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting six more deaths from starvation in just 24 hours, including two children. This brings the total famine-related deaths to 133 since October 2023.
The World Food Programme warns that nearly 500,000 people in Gaza are facing famine-like conditions. Over one-third of the population has gone days without eating. The World Health Organization also reports that more than 20% of pregnant and breastfeeding women are severely malnourished.
Local residents describe their struggle to survive. Falestine Ahmed, a mother, shared that she has lost 15 kilograms due to lack of food. Another woman, Smoud Wahdan, said her children haven’t eaten in a week.
Though aid corridors have been opened and supplies have been airdropped by Jordan and the UAE, delivery remains dangerous. One aid drop reportedly injured 11 people when a supply pallet fell on a tent.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Israeli officials deny that famine exists in Gaza. Human rights groups, however, say the situation on the ground tells a different story.
The international community is increasing diplomatic pressure. France’s President Macron vowed support for a two-state solution and plans a Gaza-focused conference in New York. Meanwhile, the U.S. has indicated that ceasefire talks are progressing.
Gaza’s Health Ministry says 88 people were killed and 374 injured in the past day alone. Since October, more than 59,800 Palestinians have died.
Read more about Ayatollah Sistani’s call for urgent action on Gaza in this detailed report.
