Cairo, May 25 – The Gaza Health Ministry on Saturday reported that at least 79 bodies were brought to hospitals across the enclave within the past 24 hours following intensified Israeli airstrikes. The grim count excludes northern Gaza hospitals that have become inaccessible due to the ongoing conflict.
Among the most heart-wrenching tragedies was the death of nine children belonging to Dr. Alaa Najjar, a pediatrician serving at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. According to Dr. Ahmed Al-Farra, head of the hospital’s pediatric department, Dr. Najjar was on duty when the airstrike occurred. Upon rushing home, she found her house engulfed in flames.
Her husband sustained serious injuries, while their only surviving child—an 11-year-old son—is currently hospitalized in critical condition. The ages of the deceased children ranged from just seven months to 12 years. Spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry, Khalil Al-Dukran, confirmed that two of the children’s bodies are still trapped beneath the rubble.
Israeli Military Responds
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement acknowledging the strike, claiming it was aimed at “active suspects” operating from a building near their troops in the Khan Younis area. The IDF labeled the region a “dangerous war zone” and stated that efforts to evacuate civilians were initiated prior to the operation. They added that reports of civilian casualties are currently under review.
A separate statement from the Israeli Air Force noted that over 100 targets across Gaza were hit within the last day as part of their ongoing military campaign.
War’s Toll Continues to Mount
The devastating loss of Dr. Najjar’s family has become emblematic of the severe civilian cost of the ongoing conflict. The Gaza Health Ministry stated that since the war began on October 7, 2023—following Hamas-led attacks on Israel—at least 53,901 people have been killed in Gaza. This figure is expected to rise as access to northern areas remains limited and rescue operations continue.
Humanitarian agencies have raised alarms over the rapidly deteriorating conditions in Gaza, urging both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians and medical infrastructure.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
