As Israeli offensive in Gaza entered its 71st day since resuming in March, the humanitarian toll continues to escalate. According to Gaza's health authorities, the total number of Palestinians killed since October 2023 has risen to 54,056, with 129,123 reported injuries. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that between 15-25 May, an estimated 180,000 people were forcibly displaced amid the intensifying Israeli offensive, adding to the staggering total of internal displacements in the besieged enclave. International concern is growing, particularly in Europe, where several governments have stepped up pressure on Israel to cease hostilities and allow the entry of life-saving humanitarian aid into Gaza, which remains under a complete Israeli blockade. On the ground, Israeli media reported that two Israeli soldiers were critically injured during armed clashes in Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza. The Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, claimed responsibility for targeting an Israeli foot patrol in the Al-Atatra area with an anti-personnel shell, stating that multiple soldiers were killed or wounded. Diplomatic efforts are intensifying. An Egyptian official told Al-Qahera News that Cairo is engaged in "intensive contacts" with relevant parties to secure a ceasefire as soon as possible. Coordination continues with Qatar and the United States on proposals for a truce and potential prisoner exchanges. On Tuesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi held a phone call with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. In a statement from the Egyptian presidency, both leaders condemned Israel's continued assault and warned against any attempts to forcibly displace Gaza's population. They jointly called for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access, and stronger support for a two-state solution, including broader international recognition of a Palestinian state. The leaders also backed the Arab-Islamic plan for Gaza's reconstruction, emphasizing that it must occur without displacing the local population. The conversation also touched on broader regional concerns in Syria, Lebanon, and Libya, with both leaders underscoring their commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and stability of these nations. In Finland, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed alarm over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Speaking alongside Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Turku, Merz said he was "horrified" by the suffering of civilians and called for immediate humanitarian relief. While reiterating Germany's unwavering support for Israel's right to exist, Merz suggested that the scale of recent Israeli operations may no longer align with the stated objectives of targeting militant groups or rescuing hostages. "In recent days, what we've witnessed is not entirely justifiable in the context of Israel's self-defense," he said. "Civilians are suffering enormously. I believe any German government must speak to this with restraint—but also with honesty. What is happening is no longer comprehensible." Merz also revealed that discussions are underway within the German government regarding future arms shipments to Israel, though no decision has been finalized. Meanwhile, Hamas issued a statement urging global intervention to halt what it described as a campaign of "genocide and starvation". The group called for "global days of rage" from 30 May to 1 June, encouraging worldwide demonstrations in solidarity with Gaza and against the Israeli occupation. Hamas also praised recent global expressions of support for Palestinians and called for intensified pressure on Israel through all available diplomatic and civil society channels.
