In the wake of the release of US-Israeli soldier Idan Alexander on 12 May, Israel has sharply escalated its military operations in Gaza, deepening an already devastating humanitarian catastrophe. According to the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, at least 564 Palestinians were killed by direct Israeli shelling in the six days following the soldier’s release, with an additional 122 succumbing to hunger, untreated injuries, and the complete breakdown of Gaza’s health system.

Far from easing tensions, the release was followed by a surge in violence and forced displacement. Israeli forces issued ten evacuation orders, forcing around 300,000 Palestinians from their homes. At the same time, aid remained barred from entering the Strip, despite the international hope that the soldier’s release might pave the way for a ceasefire or humanitarian relief.

With total blockade conditions ongoing for over 78 days, the Monitor stressed that starvation has become a deliberate weapon, wielded alongside military firepower. The Gaza Health Ministry reported Sunday that the overall death toll since 7 October 2023 has reached 53,339—mostly women and children—while injuries exceed 121,000. More than 11,000 remain missing beneath the rubble, as the threat of new ground incursions looms.

The Euro-Med Monitor condemned the silence of the international community, particularly the US, whose continued support enables what they describe as genocidal acts. It urged immediate sanctions against Israel and emphasised that protecting civilians is a legal obligation, not a matter of political convenience.

As Gaza’s civilians face forced starvation, bombardment, and displacement, the world must reckon with the cost of inaction. Each delay in accountability turns global silence into complicity.