On May 18, 2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) significantly escalated military operations in the Gaza Strip, launching a large-scale ground invasion alongside hundreds of intense airstrikes. The latest phase of what Israeli officials are calling “Operation Gideon’s Chariots” has drawn global concern over mounting civilian casualties and an expanding humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The IDF confirmed its forces have advanced deep into northern and southern Gaza, targeting what they describe as key Hamas strongholds and tunnel networks. Israeli military spokespeople claim the objectives include destroying terrorist infrastructure and securing the release of hostages taken during the October 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel, which left over 1,200 people dead.
Palestinian health authorities report more than 130 deaths in the first 24 hours of the renewed offensive, including dozens of women and children. Local hospitals, already under severe strain from months of conflict, are now collapsing under the pressure. The Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia was reportedly forced to shut down after sustaining direct airstrike damage. Aid organizations are warning of a total breakdown of medical services as supplies run out and casualties surge.
In response to international condemnation and urgent calls to protect civilians, the Israeli government has authorized limited humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the decision aims to prevent mass starvation while maintaining pressure on Hamas. However, critics argue that the scale of destruction and the limited aid cannot prevent an impending famine in the region.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire continue through Qatari mediators, but so far, no deal has been reached. Israel insists on the complete disarmament of Hamas, the release of all hostages, and the exile of the group’s leadership. Meanwhile, Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the permanent lifting of the blockade. Both sides remain deeply entrenched, prolonging the bloodshed.
Since the start of the conflict’s resurgence in October 2023, over 53,000 Palestinians have been killed according to local health officials, a number that includes thousands of civilians and children. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, and millions are displaced with little access to clean water, food, or healthcare.
The international community, including the United Nations, human rights organizations, and foreign governments, continue to call for an immediate halt to the violence and a long-term political solution. As Israel expands its offensive, global leaders are warning that the situation in Gaza risks becoming one of the worst humanitarian disasters of the 21st century.
