Israel Launches New Military Attack on Gaza, Civilian Casualties Reported | Latest Gaza News 19 Oct 2025

Israel Launches New Military Attack on Gaza, Civilian Casualties Reported

Israeli media reported that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a new military operation on the eastern outskirts of Gaza City, targeting what they described as “Hamas strongholds.” The strike reportedly caused civilian casualties and significant damage to residential areas, though the Israeli military has not yet issued an official statement.

According to Israeli defense officials cited by local media, the assault was carried out as a “defensive response” after intelligence suggested Hamas militants were regrouping and preparing new attacks. Israel accuses Hamas of violating key ceasefire terms — including the return of hostages’ remains and the disarmament of its fighters.

Palestinian authorities have condemned the attack, calling it “illegal, inhumane, and unjustified aggression.” The Gaza Health Ministry reported that several apartment blocks were destroyed, leaving dozens of civilians — including women and children — trapped under rubble. Rescue teams say operations are hindered by continuous drone surveillance and damaged roads.

Eyewitnesses described the airstrikes as among the heaviest since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire began earlier this month. Hospitals in Gaza have declared a state of emergency as the number of wounded continues to rise. Local officials have appealed for urgent international medical and humanitarian aid.

The U.S. State Department warned that continued violations from either side could collapse the fragile truce. Hamas rejected Washington’s statement, accusing the U.S. of “political bias” and claiming Israel is using the ceasefire as cover to intensify its military pressure.

Humanitarian organizations and the United Nations have warned that Gaza’s situation is becoming increasingly desperate. The continued closure of the Rafah Border Crossing — Gaza’s main route for aid and travel — has cut off vital supplies of food, medicine, and clean water. Aid agencies say thousands of displaced families are struggling to survive as hospitals operate far beyond capacity.

Some analysts believe Israel’s latest move is part of a broader political strategy to maintain leverage over Hamas during ongoing negotiations. Others caution that the renewed assault could completely derail the ceasefire and push the region toward another full-scale conflict.

As tensions escalate once again, hopes for a lasting peace appear to be fading. Experts warn that unless international mediation intensifies soon, Gaza could face one of its worst humanitarian crises in years.