The Gaza Strip endured one of its bloodiest nights since the conflict reignited, with Israeli airstrikes killing at least 100 Palestinians overnight on 18 May 2025, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The deaths include 36 civilians in Al-Mawasi, a designated safe zone, and 39 others in northern and central Gaza, further raising international alarm over the worsening humanitarian catastrophe.
The World Health Organization (WHO) referenced the Health Ministry’s figures, confirming widespread civilian casualties, including women and children. Israel’s military defended the operation, stating it was targeting Hamas operatives embedded in civilian zones—a claim Hamas denies.
Al-Mawasi Safe Zone Hit, Hospitals on Brink of Collapse
The Al-Mawasi area, long promoted by Israel as a humanitarian corridor, was bombarded despite assurances it would remain untouched. Amnesty International has condemned the strike, declaring Gaza’s healthcare system “on the verge of collapse” due to the Israeli blockade in place since 2 March.
Reports confirm more than 423,000 people have been displaced under Israeli evacuation orders, with 70% of Gaza’s population now forcibly uprooted, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Ceasefire Hopes Fade Amid Ground Offensive Threats
As diplomatic efforts continue in Doha, Qatar, ceasefire negotiations have again stalled. Talks are focused on a potential hostage deal, with Hamas holding 58 captives since its 7 October 2023 attack, which killed 1,218 Israelis, according to Israel’s Foreign Ministry.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s intention to “destroy Hamas”, stalling progress as Hamas demands a full military withdrawal.
Israel’s build-up for a possible ground invasion—dubbed “Operation Gideon’s Chariots”—has fueled fears of an even deadlier phase in the conflict.
Famine and Aid Shortages Deepen Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian crisis continues to spiral. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged “unimpeded humanitarian access”, warning that over 2.3 million Gazans are at risk of starvation.
Since 18 March, 2,985 Palestinians have died, bringing the war’s toll to 53,119, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
The UN Satellite Centre revealed that 95.4% of Gaza’s schools have sustained damage, crippling the education system. Meanwhile, UNRWA confirmed 179 staff deaths, and ICRC reported five aid workers killed, highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian responders.
Global Reaction and Social Media Outcry
International condemnation has surged:
- Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani urged Israel to halt attacks, stating: “The Palestinian people must not suffer further.”
- China’s Foreign Ministry voiced “grave concern” and called for immediate de-escalation.
Social media users on X described the Al-Mawasi bombing as “horrific”, with many calling for an immediate ceasefire and global intervention.
Looking Ahead: Ceasefire or Escalation?
With peace talks faltering and the humanitarian toll mounting, the 18 May strikes underscore the urgent need for diplomatic resolution. The international community faces growing pressure to act decisively to halt the devastation in Gaza.
This article is part of our ongoing Middle East Crisis Series, offering real-time updates and verified analysis of the evolving Israel-Hamas conflict.
