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Monday 23/02/2026

Escalating Tensions in Gaza: Israeli Strikes and Humanitarian Crisis

Destruction in Gaza with smoke and displaced families
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in at least 25 Palestinian deaths, marking a significant escalation in violence.
  • The strikes followed alleged ceasefire violations by Hamas, with Israel targeting "Hamas terrorist targets."
  • Displaced Palestinians in Gaza face dire conditions as winter approaches, exacerbated by recent storms.
  • Humanitarian aid remains insufficient, with bureaucratic hurdles impeding the delivery of essential supplies.
  • The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis highlight the fragility of the Gaza ceasefire and peace efforts.

In a dramatic escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip have resulted in the deaths of at least 25 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. This surge in hostilities marks one of the deadliest days since a ceasefire was established five weeks ago. The Israeli military stated that the strikes targeted "Hamas terrorist targets" in response to gunfire directed at its soldiers in Khan Younis, a claim that Hamas disputes, labeling the strikes as a "dangerous escalation."

Violations and Retaliations

The recent violence erupted after the UN Security Council endorsed a Gaza peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, aiming to end two years of conflict. However, the ceasefire's fragility was underscored by the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) response to what it described as a breach by Hamas militants. The IDF reported no injuries among its soldiers but justified the strikes as necessary to counteract the perceived threat. Hamas, in turn, condemned the Israeli actions, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of seeking to "resume the genocide against our people."

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Amidst the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Recent storms have devastated displacement camps, leaving many Palestinians in dire conditions as winter looms. Sabah al-Breem, a 62-year-old resident of a makeshift shelter in Khan Younis, described the impact of the storm: "Everything collapsed... All our belongings were soaked." For the half-million Palestinians in al-Mawasi, this winter marks yet another season of hardship.

Aid Challenges and Bureaucratic Hurdles

Despite international efforts to provide relief, aid distribution remains severely hampered. A senior official from a major NGO highlighted the challenges, noting that while some aid is reaching Gaza, it is far from sufficient. "We could be handing out 10,000 tents a day," the official stated, emphasizing the bureaucratic obstacles imposed by Israel that delay critical supplies. The Rafah crossing from Egypt remains closed, further complicating the delivery of aid.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The recent escalation in Gaza underscores the precarious nature of the ceasefire and the challenges facing peace efforts. If hostilities continue, the humanitarian crisis could worsen, with displaced Palestinians bearing the brunt of the conflict. International pressure may mount on Israel and Hamas to adhere to the ceasefire and facilitate aid delivery. However, without significant diplomatic intervention, the cycle of violence and suffering is likely to persist, complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.