Israeli military operations in Gaza have intensified in April 2025, causing significant casualties and territorial shifts. Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 25 Palestinians, including eight children and five women. Residential areas in Deir al-Balah and Beit Lahiya were key targets, with one strike killing an entire family. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, primarily women and children.
Israeli forces have also targeted media facilities, including a Palestinian news agency’s press center in Khan Yunis, which led to the deaths of two journalists and injuries to eight others. This attack was condemned by the Center for the Protection of Journalists as a violation of international law.
Since March 2025, Israel has expanded its control over Gaza, now overseeing more than 50% of the territory. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have created a buffer zone nearly two miles deep along Gaza’s border, demolishing homes and infrastructure to prevent Hamas from utilizing these areas. Soldiers have constructed watchtowers and established positions, signaling plans for a prolonged presence.
The expansion of Israeli forces has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, with 140,000 evacuated from Rafah alone in the past two weeks. Forced evacuations from central Gaza have led to the destruction of residential buildings and shelters for displaced families. Human rights groups have criticized these actions as potential war crimes.
The international community has expressed concern over the ongoing situation. The United Nations has reported that Israeli forces have seized or evacuated about 65% of Gaza, while human rights organizations condemn the destruction of homes and displacement of civilians. These actions continue to raise alarms about the humanitarian crisis and the broader implications of the conflict.
