Intensified Israeli Assault on Gaza City Raises Alarms as UN Warns of Tragic Humanitarian Impact

Sun Oct 19 2025 10:13:15 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Israeli forces heighten attacks on Gaza City amid preparations for a ground offensive, leading to alarming casualties and a dire humanitarian situation for displaced families.

Israel has intensified its military operations around Gaza City, resulting in significant loss of life, particularly among women and children. As hostilities escalate and preparations for a ground offensive continue, the UN warns of catastrophic humanitarian consequences for the thousands of displaced families. Protests in Israel call for an end to the war and a focus on securing the release of hostages.

Israeli forces are intensifying their attacks on the outskirts of Gaza City, residents report, as the military steps up preparations for a ground offensive to capture the area.

Hospitals indicate that women and children are among more than 30 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes across the city on Wednesday, with many casualties occurring in the northern and western districts.

The Israeli military's Chief of Staff has expressed a commitment to continuing strikes against Hamas's operational capabilities until the group is defeated and hostages are freed.

The ongoing military operations have raised alarms from the UN and humanitarian organizations, which highlight the severe humanitarian consequences for displaced families seeking refuge in a city home to over a million people. This comes amid reports of famine declared last month.

Simultaneously, Israeli protesters marked a day of disruption demanding swift governmental action to negotiate a deal to end hostilities in exchange for the release of all 48 hostages believed to be held in Gaza, of whom 20 are thought to be alive.

As the situation deteriorates, conflict escalates with hospitals reporting that at least 46 people have died since midnight due to Israeli airstrikes and gunfire across the Gaza Strip. Reports also reveal tragic incidents, including the deaths of three-year-old Ibrahim al-Mabhuh's parents and sisters in one of the strikes.

Narratives from witnesses capture harrowing scenes as families flee with their belongings amid relentless bombings. The military has been accused of causing indiscriminate destruction in the Sheikh Radwan area, where makeshift shelters in schools have also been targeted.

The Israeli military stated that it is reviewing claims of civilian casualties while continuing its operations against Hamas. As tensions rise, protests in Israel reflect growing frustration over the government's handling of the war and hostages' situation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's declaration of intent to conquer Gaza follows failed ceasefire talks with Hamas, igniting fear among hostages' families over the campaign's implications for their loved ones.

As the conflict strains humanitarian resources, many displaced have been unable to find safe shelter, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and intervention.