Gaza in Flames, International Outrage, and Netanyahu Under Pressure
The number of the day: 65,000
The official Palestinian casualty toll since the beginning of the conflict, according to APNews, has exceeded 65,000 deaths, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, as Israeli strikes intensify and cause mass displacements.
Large-scale ground offensive and forced exodus
On September 16, 2025, Israel launched a major ground offensive inside Gaza City, using armored vehicles, tanks, and remote-controlled armored vehicles, all forces engaged in what appears to be the decisive phase of the offensive, according to The Guardian.
Tens of thousands of residents are attempting to flee south, despite extremely dangerous conditions. Reuters reports that at least 63 Palestinians were killed today in Gaza, most in Gaza City, with strikes now targeting densely populated urban areas.
Acute famine in northern Gaza
With the passage of time, the food crisis is dangerously worsening. Reuters warns that since the closure of the Zikim crossing on September 12, northern Gaza, already ravaged by famine, faces an extreme risk of food and fuel stock depletion.
UN agencies indicate that humanitarian convoys are blocked, food aid can no longer reach the most vulnerable communities, and the remaining reserves may only last for days.
Netanyahu's "super-Sparta" vision and growing isolation
Alongside the offensive, Benjamin Netanyahu outlined a vision of military autonomy and self-sufficiency for Israel — the "super-Sparta" model — stating that the country must prepare to live under strong international condemnation and seek to reduce its reliance on foreign trade. The Guardian reports that this rhetoric comes as the European Union considers sanctions, including the suspension of certain trade agreements with Israel.
International Reactions: Questioning and Condemnations
- The Pope denounced the "unacceptable" conditions imposed on Palestinian civilians, calling for an immediate ceasefire.
- Saudi Arabia condemned the ground offensive in Gaza City "in the strongest terms," demanding that the UN Security Council intervene in response to accusations of forced displacement, famine, and civilian killings.
- The European Union, via the Commission, proposes to suspend free trade agreements with Israel, particularly those affecting exports worth 5.8 billion euros, in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the offensive as "morally, politically, and legally intolerable," considering current diplomatic efforts insufficient in the face of what could be considered serious violations of international humanitarian law.
How to help Palestine?
Here are some concrete actions you can take, even from a distance:
1. Wear a Palestinian keffiyeh — a visible symbol of resistance.
2. Display a Palestinian flag at home or public events.
3. Choose Palestinian jewelry — support local artisans.
4. Wear a Palestine jersey at the stadium or public events.