Israeli Airstrikes Kill 60 Overnight in Gaza as Death Toll Soars to 300 Amid Global Outcry

Gaza City —

At least 60 Palestinians were killed overnight as Israeli airstrikes continued pounding Gaza, according to reports by Palestinian health officials. The death toll in recent attacks has now surpassed 300, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory.

Despite increasing international condemnation and threats of punitive measures from major Western powers, Israel’s military campaign against Hamas shows no signs of abating. The intensified strikes targeted several densely populated areas, including Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, and the Nuseirat refugee camp.

“The Israeli military continues targeting Hamas fighters allegedly embedded in civilian zones,” Israeli officials stated, although no new formal comments were made about the latest wave of strikes.

Breakdown of Recent Strikes:

• Khan Younis: 10 killed

• Northern Gaza: 22 killed

• Deir al-Balah: 13 killed

• Nuseirat Refugee Camp: 15 killed

This offensive is part of Israel’s declared mission to “neutralize Hamas capabilities,” but critics argue it has caused disproportionate civilian casualties.

Humanitarian Disaster Deepens in Gaza

Gaza's health ministry claims over 53,000 Palestinians have died since the start of the conflict, most of them women and children. The ministry’s reports, however, do not distinguish between civilian and combatant deaths, complicating international assessments.

In a blockaded region suffering from fuel, food, and medicine shortages, the humanitarian situation is dire. Although Israel has recently permitted limited aid to enter Gaza, UN agencies warn this is far from adequate.

• “Roughly 600 trucks a day entered during the previous ceasefire. We are now seeing only a fraction of that,” said a UN relief officer.

• Famine risks loom as basic necessities remain blocked or severely limited.

Global Condemnation and Diplomatic Pressure Mount

Canada, France, and the UK issued a joint statement on Monday, warning Israel of "concrete actions" including potential sanctions. These nations condemned what they termed “egregious military operations”, demanding an immediate halt.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau: “These attacks are indefensible and must stop.”

UK Foreign Secretary: “We cannot support continued operations that flout international humanitarian law.”

In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Western powers of “rewarding terrorism” and justifying Hamas's initial October 7, 2023, attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to 251 hostages being taken.

War Origins and Context

The Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel, killing civilians and capturing hostages. In retaliation, Israel launched a full-scale military campaign, aimed at dismantling Hamas and asserting control over Gaza.

• As of today, 58 hostages remain in captivity, with roughly a third presumed to be still alive.

• Entire neighborhoods have been flattened, displacing tens of thousands of civilians across Gaza.

Aid and Reconstruction: A Grim Outlook

Experts warn that rebuilding Gaza could take decades. The infrastructure has been devastated, and international funding is uncertain amid political divisions on the conflict’s root causes.

Israel’s stated goal now includes:

• Permanent demilitarization of Gaza

• Control over aid distribution

• Resettlement or displacement of populations in strategic areas

FAQs

1. Why is Israel bombing Gaza?

Israel claims to target Hamas fighters and infrastructure in response to Hamas attacks, including the October 7 massacre.

2. How many people have died in Gaza so far?

Over 53,000 Palestinians have been reported killed since October 2023, with over 300 killed in just the past few days.

3. What triggered the current Israel-Gaza war?

The war was triggered by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken.

4. Are civilians being targeted in Gaza?

Israel states it targets militants, but critics say strikes on densely populated areas have resulted in mass civilian casualties.

5. What is the global response to Israel’s actions in Gaza?

Countries like Canada, France, and the UK have condemned the strikes and are considering sanctions against Israel.

6. Is there a ceasefire or peace deal in sight?

There is currently no ceasefire. Past truce efforts have collapsed, and both sides remain entrenched in their objectives.

7. How much aid is entering Gaza?

Only a small number of aid trucks are allowed in. UN officials say this is far below what is needed to prevent famine.

8. What is the status of hostages taken by Hamas?

58 hostages are still unaccounted for. It is believed that about a third may still be alive.

9. Has Israel violated international law?

Human rights organizations allege violations due to civilian deaths, but official investigations are ongoing.

10. What role is the UN playing in Gaza?

The UN is coordinating limited humanitarian aid and has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and protection of civilians.

Source:

• Associated Press (AP)

• Gaza Health Ministry

• United Nations Relief Agencies

• Official Statements from Canadian, French, and UK Governments

• Statements by Israeli Government & IDF