On May 16, 2025, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of over 100 individuals, predominantly civilians, coinciding with the conclusion of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East tour. This escalation is part of “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” a renewed Israeli military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages taken during the October 2023 attacks.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly. Hospitals, such as the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza, are overwhelmed with casualties, and the ongoing Israeli blockade has led to acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. President Trump acknowledged the crisis, stating that “people are starving,” and expressed support for providing aid to Palestinians affected by the violence.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, including from the United Nations, Israel has intensified its military operations, with over 250 people killed in Gaza over a two-day period. The Israeli government maintains that these actions are necessary to pressure Hamas into releasing the remaining hostages and to eliminate threats to its security.
The conflict has also expanded beyond Gaza, with Israeli forces conducting airstrikes on Houthi-controlled ports in Yemen, aiming to disrupt weapons transfers. These developments underscore the escalating regional tensions and the urgent need for diplomatic interventions to prevent further loss of life.