Tue Mar 18 17:22:08 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Death Toll Soars as Israel Launches Major Air Strikes, Forcing Mass Evacuations

**GAZA CITY, PALESTINE –** A renewed wave of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza has resulted in a sharp increase in the death toll and triggered mass evacuations, shattering a nearly two-month ceasefire. At least 404 Palestinians were killed and 562 injured on Tuesday, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, making it the deadliest single day of Israeli attacks since the January 19 ceasefire. The actual number is feared to be higher, with many still trapped under rubble.

The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for several towns, declaring them “dangerous combat zones,” including Beit Hanoon in northern Gaza and areas in the south. Thousands of terrified civilians fled their homes, seeking refuge in western Gaza City and Khan Younis. The Israeli army spokesman, Avichay Adraee, urged residents to evacuate immediately for their safety.

Gaza’s Government Media Office reported that entire families were among the victims, and that emergency responders struggled to reach and evacuate all the injured due to the intensity of the attacks. The office condemned the strikes as “brutal massacres,” accusing the Israeli army of perpetrating “genocide.”

The escalating violence comes despite near-daily reported violations of the ceasefire by the Israeli military since January. The Gaza Health Ministry’s overall death toll since the October 2023 conflict now stands at at least 48,577, with over 112,000 injured and thousands more missing and presumed dead. The situation remains critical, with fears of further casualties and displacement.

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