Israeli strikes across Gaza kill dozens and force a main hospital to close, health officials say
3 minute readPublished: Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 12:18 pm
Gaza Under Fire: Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens, Hospital Forced to Close
Recent Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip have resulted in a devastating loss of life, with at least 103 Palestinians killed overnight and into Sunday, according to hospital and medic reports. The attacks, part of an intensified Israeli offensive, have forced the closure of the main hospital in northern Gaza, further crippling the already strained healthcare system.
The southern city of Khan Younis bore the brunt of the violence, with over 48 fatalities reported in airstrikes targeting homes and shelters for displaced people. Among the dead were 18 children and 13 women. In northern Gaza, strikes on the Jabaliya refugee camp claimed the lives of multiple families, including several children.
Israel's military has not yet commented on the recent strikes. However, Israel maintains that civilian casualties are a result of Hamas operating within civilian areas. The current offensive, dubbed "Gideon's Chariots," aims to seize territory, displace Palestinians, and exert greater control over aid distribution. Israel seeks a temporary ceasefire on its terms, including the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Hamas, however, demands a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and an end to the war as part of any ceasefire agreement.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, exacerbated by the ongoing blockade of essential supplies, including food, medicine, and fuel. The war, which began on October 7, 2023, has already claimed the lives of over 53,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Meanwhile, the conflict has expanded, with escalating tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Israel intercepted a Houthi missile launched at the country, and the rebels claimed to have fired ballistic missiles towards Israel's main airport.
BNN's Perspective: The situation in Gaza is a tragedy, with both sides bearing responsibility for the ongoing violence and suffering. While Israel has the right to defend itself, the scale of civilian casualties and the destruction of vital infrastructure, including hospitals, are deeply concerning. A lasting ceasefire and a commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict are essential to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
Keywords: Gaza, Israel, airstrikes, casualties, Hamas, Khan Younis, Jabaliya, hospital closure, ceasefire, humanitarian crisis, Gideon's Chariots, hostages, Houthi rebels, Yemen, conflict, war, Palestinians, children, women, blockade, aid.