KHAN YOUNIS, Aug 23: At least 25 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed Saturday in Israeli strikes and shootings across Gaza, many sheltering in tents or seeking food aid.
This comes as Gaza City was officially declared to be experiencing famine by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), marking the first famine declaration in the Middle East. The announcement has increased international pressure on Israel to halt its 22-month military offensive triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attacks.
The IPC warned nearly half a million people face catastrophic hunger, worsened by displacement, collapsed food production, and severe aid restrictions. Although Israel has allowed some airdrops and limited land access for aid, UN agencies say the food is still insufficient. Israel dismissed the famine declaration as false, blaming Hamas and asserting it has permitted enough aid.
Israeli forces are preparing for a major ground assault on Gaza City, targeting Hamas strongholds, while aid groups like Médecins Sans Frontières report rising casualties and displacement due to bombardment. Israeli gunfire also killed five near an aid crossing in northern Gaza.
Ceasefire talks remain stalled as Israel has yet to respond to a Hamas-backed proposal involving hostage releases for ending the war. Prime Minister Netanyahu supports negotiations but insists on war-ending terms favorable to Israel. Former U.S. President Trump criticized Hamas’ demands and called for swift military action to resolve the hostage crisis. (AP)
