Israel pounded Gaza with new air strikes on Tuesday as world powers grappled with brokering a ceasefire ahead of a crucial UN Security Council vote.
The UN raised concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning of impending food shortages that could lead to preventable child deaths.
As the conflict enters its fourth month, Gaza has been devastated, driving 2.2 million people to the brink of famine and displacing three-quarters of the population.
How many of us have to die to stop these crimes? lamented Palestinian doctor Ahmad Moghrabi in Khan Younis.
Efforts to achieve a unified global response have faltered, with a UN ceasefire resolution facing a probable US veto.
Despite ongoing calls to spare Rafah, Israel has set a deadline for a potential ground incursion by Ramadan, linking it to the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas since October.
Global powers are seeking to avert a major ground offensive in Gaza, fearing dire consequences for civilians.
International mediators are pushing for a truce, but multiple ceasefire proposals are facing obstacles at the UN Security Council.
While the situation remains tenuous, the stakes are high as civilians in Gaza face acute malnutrition and escalating violence.
The conflict originated from an attack by Hamas in October, triggering a deadly cycle of violence that has left thousands dead and displaced millions.
As tensions escalate and humanitarian conditions deteriorate, the world watches anxiously for a path towards peace in the embattled region.
