Israeli bombardment escalates in Gaza as health system nears collapse

Israel launched one of its most intense bombardments in recent weeks on Tuesday, targeting multiple areas across the Gaza Strip with air, land, and naval attacks, according to local residents and officials. The military assault comes amid growing fears of a total collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that more than 1,600 Palestinians have been killed since military operations resumed on March 18 following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. The offensive has forced hundreds of thousands into overcrowded shelters, with Israel taking control of wide areas to form what it calls a “buffer zone.”

Health Crisis Deepens

Gaza’s healthcare services are on the verge of total failure. All 25 UN-run bakeries have shut down due to a continued Israeli blockade, sparking warnings of mass starvation and disease. A planned UN-funded polio vaccination campaign for over 600,000 children has been postponed, prompting urgent calls for international medical aid.

“Children and patients shouldn’t be taken as leverage,” said Khalil Deqran, spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry, adding that over 60,000 children are now showing signs of malnutrition.

Truce Proposal in Cairo Talks

A Hamas delegation is currently in Cairo to discuss a proposed multi-year truce with Israel, possibly lasting five to seven years, in exchange for the release of hostages and a ceasefire. While Israel has not formally rejected the offer, it continues to demand the disarmament of Hamas—something the group refuses.

Blockade and International Reactions

Israel defends the blockade as a legal measure aimed at pressuring Hamas to release the remaining 59 Israeli hostages taken during the October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant responded to international criticism by insisting, “Israel is operating fully within international law,” and stated that aid deliveries are carefully monitored to prevent misuse by Hamas.

However, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini denounced the blockade, calling it “collective punishment.” He urged an immediate end to the siege and restoration of the ceasefire.

Rising Civilian Toll

More than 51,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the conflict, according to Gaza health authorities. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as aid remains blocked and key services collapse under pressure.

Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that military operations would continue: “We will pursue Hamas wherever it is—in the north, south, and even outside Gaza’s borders.”

As the death toll rises and conditions worsen, calls for international intervention and a renewed ceasefire grow louder.