Escalating Conflict, Displacement, and a Growing Humanitarian Catastrophe

On August 24, 2025, in Gaza City, a Palestinian man was seen riding a bike as smoke billowed following an Israeli strike. Witnesses reported continuous explosions overnight in the Zeitoun and Shejaia areas. Tanks shelled homes and roads in the nearby Sabra neighborhood, and several buildings were destroyed in the northern town of Jabalia.

The Israeli military announced that its forces had resumed combat in the Jabalia area in recent days to dismantle militant tunnels and consolidate control. The military stated that this operation would allow for the expansion of combat into other areas and prevent Hamas from returning to operate in those regions.

Israel approved a plan this month to seize control of Gaza City, which it described as Hamas's final stronghold. The operation is not expected to begin for several weeks, providing an opportunity for mediators Egypt and Qatar to attempt to resume ceasefire talks.

Israel's Defense Minister vowed to continue the offensive, despite international concerns and domestic objections. He stated that Gaza City would be destroyed unless Hamas agreed to end the war on Israel's terms and release all remaining hostages.

The explosions caused panic, with some families fleeing the city. Others expressed a preference to remain, despite the danger. Approximately half of Gaza's two million residents currently live in Gaza City. A few thousand have already left, carrying their belongings.

Mohammad, 40, described repeatedly having to evacuate his home in Gaza City, citing the lack of safe places and the risk of a sudden invasion with heavy fire. Others, like Aya, 31, with a family of eight, stated they would not leave, citing financial constraints and fear.

A global hunger monitor reported that Gaza City and surrounding areas are officially experiencing famine, which is likely to spread. Israel has disputed this assessment, claiming it overlooks steps taken to increase aid supply.

On Sunday, the Gaza health ministry reported eight more deaths from malnutrition and starvation, bringing the total to 289, including 115 children, since the war began. Israel disputes the fatality figures provided by the health ministry.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led gunmen attacked southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths, primarily civilians, and the taking of 251 hostages. Israel's military offensive against Hamas has since resulted in at least 62,000 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians, and has left much of the territory in ruins, displacing nearly the entire population.