Gaza Death Toll Rises as Israel Intensifies Attacks

Gaza Under Fire: Hundreds Dead as Israel Intensifies Attacks Amid Ceasefire Talks Gaza Strip, Palestine – Intense Israeli attacks on Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 130 Palestinians in a matter of hours on Sunday, May 18th, 2025. This escalation comes despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The attacks have targeted civilian areas, causing widespread destruction and immense suffering. One video shows the aftermath of an air strike on a tent camp sheltering displaced Palestinians in al-Mawasi. The footage depicts horrific scenes of fire and destruction, with people injured and killed. Another video shows a family of seven killed in Beit Lahiya in north Gaza. A distraught Palestinian woman, Samia Al Qasas, whose home was destroyed, stated, "We don't have missiles, and we are not terrorists. We are a peaceful people who just want to live." This sentiment reflects the desperation and fear felt by many Gazans. The Israeli army has announced it is mobilizing for a new ground assault, adding to the already dire situation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm at reports of Israel's plans to expand ground operations, adding, "We reject the repeated displacement of the Gaza population and we obviously reject any question of forced displacement outside of Gaza." The Arab League has proposed a plan to rebuild areas destroyed by Israeli attacks, highlighting the scale of the devastation and the need for international support.