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Israel Intensifies Strikes on Gaza, 146 Palestinians Killed in 24 Hours Amid Escalating Conflict
Israel has launched a series of deadly airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, killing at least 146 Palestinians in the past 24 hours, according to local health authorities. The escalation marks one of the most intense phases of bombardment since the truce collapsed in March, as Israeli forces appear poised for a potential ground offensive.
The surge in violence comes as U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his Middle East tour without announcing any tangible progress towards a new ceasefire agreement. Despite mounting international pressure, Israel has intensified its operations under ‘Operation Gideon’s Wagons,’ aimed at defeating Hamas and retrieving hostages.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly. Marwan Al-Sultan, director of the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza, reported that 58 bodies have been received since midnight, with many more victims still trapped under rubble. He described the situation inside the hospital as “catastrophic,” as medical supplies dwindle and healthcare facilities remain overwhelmed.
In addition to the 146 fatalities, 459 Palestinians have been injured in the relentless bombardment over the past 24 hours. With Gaza’s health infrastructure in near-collapse due to repeated strikes and a severe blockade imposed by Israel since March, the humanitarian crisis is reaching alarming levels.
Operational Control and Ground Offensive Preparations
Israel’s military announced on Saturday that it is ramping up ground forces along the Gaza border, preparing for an expanded offensive to seize “operational control” in key areas of the enclave. The military’s official statement emphasized that Hamas remains defiant, despite the relentless strikes and increased troop deployment.
The escalation follows months of escalating hostilities since Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking 250 hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently stated that the security cabinet had approved plans to launch a broader offensive against Hamas, potentially involving the complete takeover of Gaza.
UN Warns of Famine as Blockade Continues
The United Nations has expressed grave concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, warning that the territory is on the brink of famine due to Israel’s ongoing blockade, which has cut off essential aid deliveries for 76 days. UN aid chief Tom Fletcher urged the Security Council to intervene to prevent a “potential genocide.”
In response to the worsening crisis, a U.S.-backed foundation is reportedly preparing to deliver aid to Gaza by the end of May. However, the UN has declined to work with the foundation, citing its lack of impartiality and neutrality.
Controversial Displacement Plans
Amid the escalating conflict, NBC News reported on Friday that the Trump administration is considering a plan to relocate as many as one million Palestinians from Gaza to Libya. The plan, which has not been confirmed officially, has sparked outrage among Palestinian leaders, who have categorically rejected any displacement from their land.
The proposed relocation has also drawn criticism from humanitarian organizations, who warn that forcing civilians to leave their homes would constitute a grave violation of international law.
Intense Fighting in Northern Gaza
Israeli airstrikes have primarily targeted northern Gaza, particularly the towns of Beit Lahia and Jabalia refugee camp, as the military continues its campaign to weaken Hamas’ military and governance structures. On Friday, Israeli forces ordered Gazans to move south, citing intensified military operations in the north. However, as residents attempted to flee, reports emerged of advancing Israeli tanks approaching the southern city of Khan Younis.
Gaza residents described the situation as “hellish,” with many struggling to find safe shelter amid the heavy bombardment. Humanitarian corridors remain closed, and power and water supplies have been severely disrupted, further exacerbating the crisis.
Netanyahu’s Pledge of an Expanded Offensive
Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until Hamas’ military capabilities are “completely neutralized.” In a televised address on May 5, he said that his government is “prepared to seize the entire Gaza Strip” to ensure the release of hostages and dismantle Hamas’ command structure.
As the conflict intensifies, international calls for a ceasefire have grown louder. The European Union, Russia, and China have all urged Israel to exercise restraint and prioritize civilian safety. However, with Israeli forces reportedly preparing for a major ground assault, the prospect of an immediate ceasefire appears increasingly unlikely.
Gaza’s Death Toll Rises Sharply
According to Gaza health authorities, the death toll in the enclave since the conflict resumed has now surpassed 53,000, with nearly all of Gaza’s 2 million residents displaced or otherwise impacted by the ongoing violence. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, and essential infrastructure has been severely damaged, making it increasingly difficult for humanitarian aid to reach those in need.
As the world watches the unfolding crisis, the question remains: How far will Israel’s offensive go, and at what cost to the civilian population of Gaza? With diplomatic efforts stalled and military operations escalating, the conflict shows no signs of abating.
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