Civilians continue to bear brunt of Gaza conflict

By Nathan Morley

Israeli military attacks have intensified in recent days, killing and injuring dozens of Palestinians, Gaza health authorities said. More than 1,100 people have been killed since a cease-fire was announced in October 2025.

​Thameen Al‑Kheetan, a spokesperson for the U.N. human rights office, said many of the recent fatalities occurred far from the Israeli military’s shifting “yellow line” of control. 

He said the office documented at least 57 Palestinians killed between July 13 and 20, including six children and eight women, with 34 of them dying well outside the Israeli‑imposed zone.

​U.N. verification teams have confirmed the deaths of 283 women and children in strikes across Gaza from last October through mid‑April.

Health and harsh living conditions

​In a separate development, a medical official in Gaza reported a sharp rise in miscarriages, with 4,000 cases recorded in the first half of 2026. 

​Bassam Zaqout, director of medical relief in the enclave, said the surge stems from harsh living conditions — including pregnant women travelling on unpaved roads in overcrowded vehicles, fear of bombardment, sleeping on the ground, and limited access to hot water, hygiene supplies and medical care — along with unsanitary conditions in displacement camps.