Israel-Gaza Conflict Escalates: 60 Killed as Hamas Seeks Truce to Avert Famine

Israel-Gaza Conflict Escalates: 60 Killed as Hamas Seeks Truce to Avert Famine

According to reports from Al Jazeera on July 22, 2025, Israeli strikes have killed at least 60 Palestinians in Gaza within a 24-hour period. This marks one of the deadliest days in recent weeks of the ongoing conflict. Hamas officials have stated they are actively working to negotiate a truce agreement, citing the urgent need to prevent widespread famine in the besieged territory

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The Gaza Health Ministry reports that the latest casualties include women and children, with many victims still trapped under rubble. UN officials warn that Gaza's population faces catastrophic hunger levels, with over 90% of residents experiencing acute food insecurity. Humanitarian organizations describe the situation as the worst since the beginning of the current conflict escalation.

Truce Negotiations Underway

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that mediation efforts involving Egypt and Qatar are intensifying. "We are working around the clock to establish a humanitarian ceasefire that would allow food and medical supplies to enter Gaza," Haniyeh stated in a televised address. Israeli officials have not publicly commented on the current negotiations.

International Reactions

The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to hold an emergency session later today. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in several world capitals condemning the latest violence. The U.S. State Department issued a carefully worded statement calling for "immediate de-escalation" while affirming Israel's right to self-defense.

On-the-Ground Reporting

Al Jazeera correspondents in Gaza describe apocalyptic scenes in several neighborhoods, with rescue workers struggling to reach casualties due to ongoing bombardment. Hospitals, already operating at minimal capacity due to fuel and medicine shortages, report being overwhelmed with casualties.

Historical Context

The current escalation marks the most severe violence since the 2023 conflict. Analysts note that the humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly since Israel imposed a complete siege on Gaza following the October 2023 Hamas attacks. Over 1.9 million Palestinians have been displaced within the territory.

What Comes Next?

Diplomatic sources suggest that while both sides appear open to a temporary truce, significant disagreements remain about the terms. The key sticking points reportedly include:


  • Duration of any ceasefire

  • Mechanisms for aid distribution

  • Potential prisoner exchanges



Regional Implications

The conflict continues to risk broader regional escalation, with Hezbollah in Lebanon and other Iran-backed groups closely monitoring developments. The U.S. has reportedly moved additional naval assets to the Eastern Mediterranean as a deterrent.

Human Cost of the Conflict

According to UN figures:

















Casualty Type Estimated Number
Palestinian deaths Over 38,000 since 2023
Israeli deaths Approximately 1,200
Displaced Palestinians 1.9 million


Conclusion: A Race Against Time

As diplomatic efforts intensify, humanitarian organizations warn that time is running out to prevent mass starvation in Gaza. The coming days will prove critical in determining whether the parties can agree to at least a temporary humanitarian pause to address the most urgent needs of Gaza's civilian population.

Palestine | Palestine, Gazza, Israel, Genocide | |