Gaza Hunger, Israeli Strikes Kill Hundreds Amid Siege

Israel continues to intensify its military operations in Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing intentions to take full control of Gaza City amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas that began in October 2023. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated severely, with over 61,000 Palestinians killed, including many children, and widespread destruction of housing leaving most residents in temporary shelters. Israel's blockade has severely restricted the entry of food, water, and medical aid, causing extreme hunger and malnutrition; at least 222 people have died from starvation recently, including many children, according to Palestinian health sources and UN agencies. Aid deliveries remain grossly inadequate, with only a fraction of the required aid trucks entering Gaza, many of which have been looted amid security chaos blamed on Israeli policies, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Recent Israeli airstrikes have killed dozens of Palestinians, including children and journalists, and have targeted civilians seeking aid, further intensifying the suffering in the region. Medical personnel face dangerous conditions traveling to work due to fuel shortages and unsafe roads, highlighting the compounded challenges faced by Gaza's population amid continued violence and blockade.