Nearly Half of Gaza War Deaths Hit Areas Israel Called ‘Safe’

Nearly Half of Gaza War Deaths Hit Areas Israel Called ‘Safe’

At least 91 Palestinians were killed on Saturday amid intensified Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip, including at least 45 in Gaza City, as the military pressed its ground offensive.

Gaza’s Government Media Office condemned Israel for portraying central and southern governorates as “safe humanitarian zones” while continuing strikes there. Since forced displacement from Gaza City began on 11 August, 1,903 people have been killed in 133 attacks on these areas—nearly 46 percent of all reported deaths in Gaza during that period.

The office said the figures indicate civilians are being directly targeted despite warnings to move south, calling on the international community to intervene.

In central Gaza, casualties have surged, with al-Shifa Hospital overwhelmed by the wounded. Reports included a family killed instantly when their vehicle was struck by a drone missile while evacuating. Hundreds of others continue to flee as drones and fighter jets track them across the enclave.

Hospitals are collapsing under the strain of relentless bombardment. Jordan Field Hospital was forced to evacuate all 107 patients and staff after heavy attacks. Remaining facilities, including al-Shifa and al-Ahli hospitals, are struggling to treat patients without basic medical supplies.

Dr Khalil Digran of Al-Aqsa Hospital said Israeli forces targeted al-Rantisi Paediatric Hospital, Gaza’s only children’s facility, leaving the city and northern areas with just two functioning hospitals. Overcrowding has become severe, with two patients often sharing a single bed.

Displaced residents report worsening health and dehydration due to constant movement and limited medical care. Mohammad Khoudary described his father’s deteriorating condition after being forced from their home.

Globally, protests calling for a ceasefire occurred in Berlin, Liverpool, and other cities. Meanwhile, Hamas said it has not received the Gaza ceasefire plan reportedly proposed by US President Donald Trump, who claimed this week that a deal is “looking close,” though details remain unclear. Israel has not publicly responded.

Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, whose government remains opposed to ending the war until Hamas is destroyed.