Israeli operation to capture Gaza killed 81

At least 81 Palestinians were killed in the Gaza Strip within 24 hours as Israeli forces launched a large-scale ground offensive targeting Gaza City, reports Al Jazeera.

Among the dead, 30 were shot while collecting humanitarian aid, and three others died from starvation and malnutrition.

Israeli forces began the assault early Wednesday (August 20), aiming to seize control of Gaza City, the most densely populated urban center in the enclave, where nearly one million people remain trapped.

The Israeli military described the operation as "a key step toward capturing the city."

As the humanitarian situation worsens, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned that children in Gaza are not only facing hunger but starvation. The total number of malnutrition-related deaths has now reached 269, including 112 children.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that nearly one in three children in Gaza City is malnourished, reiterating its call for an immediate ceasefire.

Among the dead is former Palestinian national basketball player Mohammed Shalan, who was shot by Israeli forces at an aid distribution center in southern Gaza. At least 30 others were killed in the same incident. Additional airstrikes on displaced persons sheltering in tents also left several civilians dead.

Israeli human rights group Gisha has accused the Israeli government of using starvation as a "weapon of war" by systematically blocking aid from entering Gaza.

Gaza’s Civil Defence reported that rescue operations are near collapse due to fuel shortages, with emergency vehicles frequently breaking down en route to missions. Medical teams are also operating in extreme conditions, with hospitals overwhelmed and lacking essential supplies.