| Online Desk : At least 33 Palestinians were killed by Israeli strikes and gunfire in Gaza on Saturday, according to local hospitals, as famine worsens in Gaza City and concerns grow over Israel’s ongoing military campaign.
Victims included displaced people sheltering in tents and those trying to access scarce food.
The latest casualties come amid warnings from Israel`s defense minister that Gaza City could face a renewed assault in the coming days, even as humanitarian agencies warn of an unfolding starvation crisis. The war, now in its 22nd month, began after Hamas’ deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Strikes hit tents in Khan Younis
Seventeen people, including women and children, were killed in Khan Younis when Israeli airstrikes reportedly targeted tents sheltering displaced families, according to morgue records and Nasser Hospital officials.
"Awad, why did you leave me?" cried a young boy near his brother`s shrouded body. Another grieving relative, Hekmat Foujo, called for peace through tears, saying, “Have some mercy on us.”
The Israeli military said it was not aware of a strike at that location and is investigating other reported incidents.
Gunfire at aid seekers near crossing
In northern Gaza, at least five people were fatally shot near the Zikim crossing, where aid convoys enter. Health officials at Sheikh Radwan field hospital reported the deaths. Among them was journalist Khaled al-Madhoun, who the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate said was targeted while reporting.
Elsewhere, eleven additional deaths were reported by hospitals and the Palestinian Red Crescent.
AP journalists have documented chaos and desperation near aid routes, including instances of Israeli troops firing at civilians. The military maintains that warning shots are used when people pose a threat.
Famine fears and aid struggles
Thousands continue to brave gunfire and heat in search of food. Mohamed Saada, one such seeker, described a scene of trucks running over people, massive crowds, and empty hands.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warned Friday that around 500,000 people in Gaza face catastrophic hunger — about a quarter of the enclave’s population. The report followed months of restricted aid access and a recent shift toward a U.S.-backed private aid operation, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
Though Israel has allowed some airdrops and resumed partial land deliveries, aid groups like the U.N. say it`s nowhere near sufficient. Israel maintains it has allowed adequate aid and blames Hamas for the suffering.
New offensive looms over Gaza City
A renewed Israeli ground operation in Gaza City is reportedly imminent, with troops already positioned on its outskirts. Israel considers the city a key Hamas stronghold, despite the presence of hundreds of thousands of civilians.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warned that its clinics are overwhelmed, and coordinator Caroline Willemen reported a marked increase in airstrikes since early August.
“People want to stay, they have been displaced endlessly before, but they also know that at some point it will become very dangerous to remain,” she said.
Ceasefire efforts stall amid hostage fears
Ceasefire talks remain in limbo, with mediators awaiting Israel’s next move after Hamas reportedly accepted a new deal from Arab mediators. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has instructed officials to begin negotiations on Israel’s terms, though it’s unclear if formal talks will resume.
Many Israelis fear a new assault will doom the remaining hostages. Families and activists continue to hold mass protests demanding a deal.
“Anyone who truly wants to bring the hostages home does not launch a ground invasion of Gaza,” said Yotam Cohen, whose brother is held captive.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in Friday, expressing frustration with Hamas and implying that a swift military push might be more effective.
Rising death toll and protests in Israel
Gaza’s Health Ministry says the death toll has reached 62,622, including previously missing people now declared dead. Malnutrition-related deaths have risen to at least 281.
Meanwhile, a group of Israelis protested against far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir in Kfar Malal, calling him an obstacle to reaching a deal. Protester Boaz Levinstein said, “Our message is to bring back the hostages.”
Ben-Gvir, a key member of Netanyahu’s coalition, remains a vocal opponent of any agreement with Hamas.
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