Tank Shellfire in Khan Younis Kills Dozens, Medical System Overwhelmed

In the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, at least 45 Palestinians have died due to Israeli tank shellfire, according to reports from the Hamas-run health ministry. Hundreds more have sustained injuries, with hospitals struggling to cope with the influx of critical cases.

Grim Toll

The health ministry in Gaza indicated that the strikes occurred as civilians were awaiting aid deliveries. Overcrowding is severe in emergency rooms, intensive care units, and operating rooms, as stated in an official declaration. Medical teams are working with limited supplies of crucial medications.

Aid Appeal

The ministry issued an “urgent appeal” to increase aid to address the escalating crisis. The Israeli military has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.

According to the World Health Organization, access to healthcare in Gaza has been severely hampered due to ongoing conflict, with hospitals facing shortages of essential supplies and staff. Approximately 70% of the hospitals in Gaza are damaged or no longer functioning, according to recent reports.

International Context

This tragedy follows a call from Donald Trump, among other G7 leaders, for a “de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza.” Just hours before the strikes, the leaders had issued this call.

Prior Incidents

On Monday, Gaza’s health ministry reported that at least 34 individuals were killed near food distribution centers. This marked the highest daily figure since aid centers, backed by the U.S. and Israel, opened last month, with thousands of Palestinians attempting to access them.

The situation underscores the critical humanitarian conditions in the region, where access to basic necessities is increasingly difficult.