Israeli strikes across Gaza kill dozens and force main hospital to close, health officials say

Published: Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 12:04 pm

Gaza Under Fire: Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens, Hospital Shutters Amid Intensified Conflict

Recent Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip have resulted in a devastating loss of life, with at least 103 Palestinians killed overnight and into Sunday, according to health officials. The attacks, part of an intensified offensive dubbed "Gideon's Chariots," have forced the closure of the main hospital in northern Gaza, further crippling the already strained healthcare system.

The strikes, concentrated in areas like Khan Younis and Jabaliya refugee camp, targeted homes and shelters, claiming the lives of numerous civilians, including children and women. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the specific strikes, citing Hamas's use of civilian areas as justification for civilian casualties.

This escalation comes as Israel aims to exert greater pressure on Hamas to agree to a ceasefire. The proposed terms include the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, but do not necessarily guarantee an end to the war. Hamas, however, insists on a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and an end to the conflict as part of any deal.

The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with a blockade on imports of essential goods exacerbating the crisis and raising fears of famine. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has already claimed the lives of over 53,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Houthi rebels in Yemen launched a missile towards Israel, prompting air raid sirens. Israel intercepted the missile and has responded with strikes on Yemen.

BNN's Perspective: The ongoing violence in Gaza is a tragedy, and the loss of civilian lives is deeply concerning. While Israel has a right to defend itself, the scale of the casualties and the targeting of hospitals raise serious questions about the conduct of the war. A sustainable ceasefire and a long-term solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict are urgently needed.

Keywords: Gaza, Israel, strikes, casualties, Hamas, ceasefire, Gideon's Chariots, Khan Younis, Jabaliya, hospital, humanitarian crisis, Houthi, Yemen, conflict, war, civilians, hostages, blockade, airstrikes, deaths, children, women.

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