Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip since early Saturday have killed at least 17 Palestinians, with most of the fatalities concentrated in Gaza City, according to local medical sources.

Thirteen of the 17 victims lost their lives in heavy bombing attacks on Gaza City, while four others were killed in repeated Israeli air raids targeting northern Gaza. Local sources reported that dozens of civilians remain trapped under the rubble as rescue teams continue desperate efforts to save survivors.

The renewed escalation comes amid Israel’s ongoing military campaign against the besieged Gaza Strip, now stretching beyond six months.

According to Gaza’s health authorities, the total death toll from the war since October 7, 2023, has risen to 51,355 martyrs, while the number of wounded has reached 117,248.

Saturday’s strikes further deepen the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, where infrastructure has been largely destroyed, medical facilities are overwhelmed, and shortages of food, water, and electricity continue to threaten the lives of the remaining population.

Local rescue teams, already struggling under extreme conditions, report that more than 30 individuals remain trapped beneath the rubble following the latest bombardment, particularly in the northern areas.

International organizations have repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and warned that the ongoing siege and attacks have created an "unprecedented humanitarian disaster" in Gaza.

Despite mounting global pressure for a resolution, Israeli attacks show no sign of abating, and the civilian population continues to bear the heaviest toll in what observers describe as a devastating and "unequal war." (ILKHA)