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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 14 — Intensified Israeli air and ground attacks on Gaza’s residential areas are driving a sharp rise in civilian casualties, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned Thursday.
OCHA reported heavy shelling in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis over recent days, with 86 percent of the enclave now under Israeli militarized zones or displacement orders. “If the announced ground operation in Gaza City proceeds, thousands already in dire conditions could face further catastrophe,” the agency cautioned.
Extreme summer heat has worsened the crisis, leaving hundreds of thousands without adequate shelter. Many families have been displaced multiple times since the conflict began, with makeshift shelters deteriorating or abandoned during repeated flight.
OCHA reiterated calls for a ceasefire, immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and unhindered humanitarian access to address the urgent needs of Gaza’s population.
UN warns Gaza Civilian toll rising amid intensified Israeli strikes
