Attack comes amid deepening humanitarian crisis and hostage release negotiations in the besieged enclave
By Joe D.
GAZA CITY — May 12, 2025 — An Israeli airstrike targeting a school-turned-shelter in northern Gaza killed at least 16 people early Monday, including five children and four women, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The strike, which occurred in the Jabaliya refugee camp area, left multiple others wounded and comes as the humanitarian crisis in the region grows increasingly dire.
The building, a converted shelter for displaced families, was reportedly housing dozens at the time of the attack. Health officials say the death toll could rise as rescue teams search through the rubble. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not yet commented on the strike.
The assault is the latest in a string of intensifying Israeli operations since the collapse of a temporary ceasefire two months ago. It follows a ten-week blockade that has all but shut off Gaza from outside access, leaving food, medicine, and basic supplies in critically short supply.
A Warzone Without Aid
The strike came as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for a Middle East visit this week, including stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. His trip coincides with reported efforts to negotiate the release of hostages still held in Gaza.
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate under the Israeli blockade. Gaza’s health infrastructure is on the brink of collapse, according to aid workers, with many hospitals running without power, basic medical supplies, or functioning sanitation systems. Markets are reportedly empty, and sewage is overflowing into streets and homes in some parts of the enclave.
Independent observers have raised alarm over the conditions. Entire neighborhoods remain flattened. Displaced civilians have taken refuge in schools, mosques, and hospitals—many of which are now targets in ongoing military operations.
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Hostage Release Imminent?
The strike came hours after reports surfaced that Hamas has agreed to release Edan Alexander, the last known American-Israeli hostage in Gaza. Two Hamas officials told the Associated Press that the release could take place within the next 48 hours as part of renewed efforts to establish a ceasefire and reopen humanitarian corridors.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed Hamas’s willingness to release Alexander, calling it a goodwill gesture toward the Trump administration. The soldier, an American citizen who joined the Israeli army, has been in captivity since October 2024.
While officials in Washington have welcomed the development, it remains unclear whether Alexander’s release would be part of a broader deal. Talks continue behind closed doors, with mediators from Qatar and Egypt playing key roles.
IDF: Militants Hiding in Civilian Areas
The Israeli military has long defended its operations in Gaza by accusing Hamas of using civilian infrastructure for militant activities. In past statements, IDF officials have said that schools, hospitals, and mosques are routinely exploited for launching attacks or storing weapons. They claim that civilian casualties are an unfortunate consequence of Hamas’s tactics.
However, no specific evidence has yet been presented to justify Monday’s strike on the Jabaliya school-shelter. International humanitarian groups are calling for an independent investigation into the incident.
Analysis: A Tipping Point Approaches
This latest escalation underscores the tightrope Israel and Hamas are walking — one of military pressure and political maneuvering. The announced hostage release may signal a tactical shift by Hamas to gain diplomatic leverage, but Israeli strikes like this one risk collapsing fragile negotiations.
As President Trump enters the region, the world’s eyes will once again turn to Gaza. Whether his presence catalyzes meaningful ceasefire progress or inflames the conflict further remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Monday’s deadly airstrike in Gaza not only adds to the mounting civilian toll but also places renewed urgency on efforts to end the fighting and open humanitarian pathways. With the enclave under siege, and political talks teetering on the edge, each day without resolution brings new tragedy.
