Thousands of aid Trucks Blocked as Israeli Assault Intensifies in Gaza; Death Toll Surges Past 61,000

Gaza, (Palestine) May 1: The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen as nearly 3,000 aid trucks remain stranded at the border, unable to enter due to Israel’s ongoing two-month blockade, according to the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA).

Meanwhile, Israeli military forces intensified their operations in central and southern Gaza on Wednesday, focusing heavy attacks on Deir el-Balah and al-Mawasi, further compounding civilian suffering in the war-torn enclave.

The Gaza Health Ministry has reported that at least 52,400 Palestinians have been killed and 118,014 injured since the conflict began. However, the Gaza Government Media Office claims the actual death toll has exceeded 61,700, with thousands still missing under the rubble, presumed dead.

These attacks are part of the ongoing war that began following Hamas-led raids into Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,139 Israeli deaths and the capture of over 200 hostages.

In a related international development, Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian rights activist detained in the United States, has been released from custody after a U.S. judge ruled he may remain free while challenging deportation efforts linked to Trump-era immigration policies. Mahdawi had been targeted due to his pro-Palestine activism.

As humanitarian agencies raise alarm over worsening conditions and growing civilian casualties, the blockade and bombardment continue to hinder aid deliveries and exacerbate one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian disasters.