Israeli airstrikes kill 25 in Gaza amid humanitarian crisis

On April 18, 2025, Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip resulted in at least 25 fatalities, including children, as reported by local hospital workers. The strikes particularly affected the southern city of Khan Younis, which saw a significant number of casualties. This escalation comes amidst ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas, with both sides entrenched in their positions regarding hostages and military objectives. In addition to the immediate loss of life, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached critical levels. The United Nations reported that nearly all of the over 2 million residents in Gaza depend on humanitarian aid for food, which has been severely restricted due to an ongoing Israeli blockade that has lasted for over a month. Aid organizations have raised alarms regarding the nutritional status of children, many of whom are facing malnourishment as food supplies dwindle amidst soaring prices. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has characterized the blockade as a tactic aimed at pressuring Hamas, which is accused of misappropriating aid meant for civilians. Moreover, the war has had a devastating impact on the region, with reports indicating over 51,000 Palestinian deaths since the beginning of hostilities. The majority of these casualties are women and children, emphasizing the severe humanitarian toll. Humanitarian groups have described the blockade as a potential starvation tactic, as Israel continues its military operations with the objective of compelling Hamas to return hostages. As airstrikes continue, the area has faced immense destruction, displacing around 90% of the population and leaving many residents without shelter. A considerable number of displaced individuals are living in makeshift camps and severely damaged buildings. Negotiations concerning a ceasefire and the return of hostages have faced setbacks, causing further despair among the already strained population.