Gaza City is reeling under intensified Israeli airstrikes, with at least 89 Palestinians reported dead in the past 24 hours. The escalation comes as international pressure mounts on Israel to address the dire humanitarian situation in the besieged territory.

Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

The Israeli military has ramped up its offensive in Gaza following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet approval to expand military operations. The airstrikes have targeted residential areas in Zeitoun and Sabra, causing significant destruction and civilian casualties. Mahmud Bassal, a spokesperson for Gaza's civil defense agency, described the situation as "massive destruction to civilian homes," with ongoing attacks preventing the recovery of the dead and injured.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached critical levels, with the UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan issuing a joint statement warning of an "unfolding famine." They have called for "immediate, permanent, and concrete steps" to facilitate aid entry into Gaza. Despite these calls, Israel denies the existence of starvation in Gaza and accuses UN agencies of failing to deliver aid.

International Appeals for Aid and Intervention

The World Health Organization has appealed to Israel to allow medical supplies into Gaza, citing a "catastrophic" health situation. Rik Peeperkorn, the agency's representative in the Palestinian territories, emphasized the urgent need to stock hospitals with essential medicines and supplies.

In a separate development, pop icon Madonna has urged the Pope to visit Gaza, using her platform to highlight the plight of children in the region. "Most Holy Father, please go to Gaza and bring your light to the children before it's too late," she posted on social media, stressing the urgency of the situation.

Netanyahu's Military Strategy and International Response

Prime Minister Netanyahu has outlined a three-step plan to dismantle Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central area around al-Mawasi. This plan includes designating safe corridors for aid distribution and increasing air drops of supplies. However, the international community has condemned these actions, with foreign ministers from 25 countries calling for a "flood" of aid into Gaza.

The situation remains tense, with reports of civilians killed while seeking aid and ongoing airstrikes causing further casualties. The Israeli military maintains that it takes precautions to mitigate civilian harm, yet the death toll continues to rise.