Israeli forces escalated attacks in Gaza City on August 12, 2025, targeting multiple residential districts as international allies issued urgent warnings about famine conditions. Twenty-four nations including the UK, Japan, and EU members demanded immediate Israeli action to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid.
Intense bombardment struck Gaza City’s Shujaiya, Sheikh Radwan, and Tel Al-Hawa neighborhoods throughout Tuesday, according to resident accounts and international media reports. The Israeli military confirmed operations against militant infrastructure but did not specify targets. Local sources described continuous explosions displacing civilians from already damaged buildings.
Simultaneously, foreign ministers from 24 countries released a joint statement declaring Gaza’s humanitarian crisis at ‘unimaginable levels.’ The coalition – including close Israeli allies like Canada and France – urged ‘immediate and permanent access’ for UN agencies to address what they termed an ‘unfolding famine.’ This unprecedented collective warning signals growing diplomatic pressure.
Gaza’s Health Ministry reported five starvation-related deaths within 24 hours, including two children, bringing total malnutrition fatalities to 227 since the conflict began. UN agencies estimate over 500,000 Gazans now face famine conditions despite Israeli claims of increased aid access through ‘protected corridors.’
Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh arrived in Cairo to resume ceasefire negotiations, with sources indicating Hamas has dropped its demand for guaranteed permanent truce terms upfront. Israel maintains significant gaps remain in proposals, accusing Hamas of prolonging talks to regroup militarily.
Impact on civilians continues to worsen, with hospitals overwhelmed by malnutrition cases and waterborne diseases. Displaced residents report no functional safe zones as infrastructure collapse accelerates food shortages. International aid groups confirm only 15% of required food enters Gaza daily.
Next phases remain uncertain as Israel plans a new Gaza City offensive by October. The 24-nation coalition pledged to monitor aid access daily, while ceasefire talks face fundamental disagreements about Hamas’ future role and Israeli withdrawal timelines.