Israel has started a full-scale ground assault on Gaza City, escalating its military campaign in the war-torn region. The offensive began on Thursday and resulted in the deaths of at least 81 Palestinians, including children, according to local health officials.
The assault comes as Gaza faces severe food shortages and a deepening famine. Health authorities confirmed that three more people died from starvation, raising the hunger-related death toll to 269. Among the victims are 112 children.
Airstrikes and shelling were reported across the Gaza Strip. In southern Gaza, a tent shelter for displaced families was hit, killing three people. Meanwhile, former Palestinian basketball player Mohammed Shaalan was shot and killed while seeking aid. Witnesses said more than 30 people died near food distribution centers.
Famine Worsens as Blockade Continues
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned that nearly one in three children in Gaza City is now malnourished. “This isn’t just hunger. This is starvation,” a WFP spokesperson said.
The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) called the situation catastrophic. Aid workers and doctors are reportedly walking for miles under threat of airstrikes to reach those in need. Fuel shortages caused by the ongoing blockade are making rescue and relief operations almost impossible.
Rights group Gisha accused Israel of using its control over humanitarian aid as a “weapon of war.” They rejected claims that the UN is responsible for blocked aid deliveries.
Israel Mobilizes Troops for Ground Offensive
The military confirmed that it has begun the first stage of its planned ground operation in Gaza City. Around 60,000 reservists have been called up to support the effort. Tanks and troops are moving closer to the city’s center.
UN officials warned the offensive could cause another wave of mass displacement. Many families have already been forced to flee multiple times since the conflict began.
Relatives of Israeli hostages have criticized the move. They say Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposed ceasefire that Hamas had agreed to. Hamas accused Israel of trying to destroy Gaza City and forcibly displace its population.
Ceasefire Talks Ongoing
Qatar and Egypt are leading negotiations for a 60-day ceasefire. The proposal includes the phased release of hostages and prisoners, along with increased humanitarian access. Israel has not yet officially responded to the offer.
Save the Children called the situation “an apocalyptic reality” for children and their families. The group urged immediate international action to prevent further suffering.
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