Israel resumed daily airstrikes on Gaza after ending its ceasefire with Hamas in mid-March. In response, thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv over the weekend, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the safe return of hostages. Health officials in Gaza reported that hospitals received the remains of 51 Palestinians killed in the last 24 hours.
The airstrikes targeted shelters and areas previously designated as humanitarian zones. This forced thousands of displaced Palestinians, already living in tents, into even greater danger. Since 18 March, Israeli ground forces have seized more land, now controlling about 50% of Gaza.
For nearly 60 consecutive days, Israel blocked the delivery of food, fuel, medicine, and other essentials into the territory, deepening the humanitarian crisis.
Food Crisis Escalates as Gaza Nears Starvation
The World Food Programme (WFP) announced Friday that it delivered its last food supplies to 47 community kitchens across Gaza. These kitchens are expected to run out of food within days, leaving thousands of families without meals.
Families in Gaza are struggling to survive on small portions of rice and canned vegetables. Meat, dairy products, and fruits have disappeared from markets. Bread, eggs, and basic vegetables are now extremely rare and very expensive.
Rights groups have accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war, a move that could be considered a war crime under international law. The WFP said over 116,000 metric tonnes of food aid are ready to enter Gaza. This supply could feed up to one million people for four months if given access.
Growing Protests in Tel Aviv Demand Hostage Release and Ceasefire
On Saturday, thousands of Israelis flooded Tel Aviv’s streets, demanding swift action from the government. Protesters called for an immediate ceasefire and the safe return of hostages held by Hamas since the 7 October attack.
Israeli leaders argue that continued military pressure is necessary to force Hamas to release the hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that military operations would continue until Hamas either surrenders or is fully disarmed.
Negotiations at Standstill Amid Cairo Talks
Meanwhile, Hamas sent a senior delegation to Cairo to meet with Egyptian mediators. The group said it would discuss the possibility of a new ceasefire and plans for rebuilding Gaza.
Hamas demands a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, a permanent ceasefire, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for the remaining hostages. Despite ongoing discussions, progress remains slow.
Diplomatic sources say that talks could continue for several more days. Officials warn that without a breakthrough, the situation in Gaza could worsen even further, both for civilians and for hopes of peace.
Humanitarian Organizations Urge Immediate Action
International humanitarian organizations are urging all parties to allow immediate aid access to Gaza. They stress that without urgent intervention, the worsening food crisis could lead to widespread famine.
The World Health Organization and the United Nations have also warned that Gaza’s hospitals are nearing collapse. Essential medical supplies are almost depleted, and basic health services are breaking down under the pressure of the ongoing conflict.