Gaza City, April 15, 2025 – A Palestinian child has died after al-Ahli Hospital, one of the last functioning medical facilities in northern Gaza, was struck by Israeli airstrikes. The incident occurred amidst escalating violence, with continued Israeli attacks across Gaza resulting in dozens of deaths, according to local medical sources.
Airstrikes Devastate Medical Infrastructure
On April 13 and 14, 2025, Israeli warplanes targeted al-Ahli Hospital, severely disrupting medical care. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the death of a child due to the resulting chaos and lack of access to treatment. The Israeli military stated that they were targeting Hamas operatives, accusing the group of using hospitals as bases for launching attacks.
The strikes have further crippled Gaza’s already strained healthcare system. Reports indicate that surgery facilities and an oxygen station within the intensive care unit were destroyed in earlier airstrikes, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Rising Casualties and Displacement
The Gaza Health Ministry reports that at least 50,944 Palestinians have been confirmed dead and 116,156 wounded since the conflict intensified. The Government Media Office has updated its death toll to more than 61,700, which includes those missing and presumed dead.
Territorial Control and Humanitarian Crisis
Israel’s defense minister announced that the army is seizing large areas of the Gaza Strip, expanding buffer zones. The UN reports that two-thirds of Gaza’s territory is now designated as “no-go” zones or under evacuation orders, severely restricting the movement of civilians and aid.
The UN Secretary-General has condemned the ongoing Israeli blockade, which continues to impede the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the region. The dire situation is compounded by the destruction of vital infrastructure, leaving the population increasingly vulnerable.
Background to the Conflict
Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has been the epicenter of intense conflict between Israel and Hamas. Following initial attacks led by Hamas in Israel, which resulted in casualties and hostages, Israel initiated extensive bombardments and ground operations in Gaza. A ceasefire was in place until March 18, 2025, after which Israeli attacks resumed, leading to the current crisis.
International Response
The international community is increasingly alarmed by the deteriorating situation in Gaza. Calls for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian access are growing louder as the conflict continues to claim lives and push the region further into despair.