Palestinians look over the damage after an Israeli airstrike hit Jabalya in northern Gaza on May 18, 2025. REUTERS
Israel started a large ground attack in Gaza on Sunday. This follows heavy airstrikes that killed over 100 people overnight. The attacks forced the last working hospital in northern Gaza to close. The Israeli military focused on areas in both northern and southern Gaza.
Talks and Tensions
At the same time, officials from Hamas and Israel began indirect talks in Doha, Qatar. A Hamas official said the talks started without any set conditions. While some hope exists for peace, a quick agreement seems unlikely. Israel said it might end the war if Hamas surrenders, but Hamas demands Israel stop fighting first and promises to release all Israeli hostages.
A senior Hamas leader told CNN they could free some hostages if Israel agreed to a 60-day ceasefire and released many Palestinian prisoners. However, another Hamas leader denied this offer, saying they will only release all hostages if Israel fully stops attacks and under international guarantees.
Military Goals and Food Aid
Israel called the new military action “Gideon’s Chariots,” a name from the Bible. The goal is to defeat Hamas and free hostages. The Israeli military said it will take control of parts of Gaza and move civilians to safer areas. To prevent hunger, Israel said it would allow a small amount of food into Gaza. This step aims to stop a hunger crisis but still supports the ongoing operation.
Global Mediation Efforts
The new talks came after a visit by the U.S. President to the Middle East. The U.S., Qatar, and Egypt pushed for a ceasefire. Israel agreed to discuss a plan that would free some hostages in exchange for a temporary pause in fighting. However, this plan does not promise to end the war.
The U.S. President suggested turning Gaza into a “freedom zone” and promised to help with the hunger crisis. He also said the U.S. wants to manage Gaza’s future peace.
Civilian Suffering and Hospital Struggles
The violence has hit civilians hard. More than 300 Palestinians died, including entire families. An infant and his siblings were killed in a displaced camp.
Hospitals struggle under the attack. The last hospital working in northern Gaza closed after heavy strikes cut power and oxygen supplies. Doctors said the situation is “beyond alarming” and that medical teams cannot safely enter or leave the hospitals.
Hunger and Aid Challenges
Before the food allowance, the UN warned Gaza’s 2.1 million people faced famine. Aid groups say this crisis worsens due to blockades lasting weeks. A new aid group backed by the U.S. plans to deliver food but faces criticism. Some fear it may encourage forced moves of Gaza residents. The group aims to set up food distribution points soon but mainly in southern and central Gaza.
Israel’s National Security Minister criticized the food decision, saying it might help Hamas.
Rising Death Toll and Human Tragedy
The death toll in Gaza since last October is over 53,000, mostly women and children. Families continue to suffer, with many killed while asleep. One man said the world ignores their pain.
Israel said it coordinates the attack with groups working on hostage safety. But some warn the operation puts hostages in more danger.
