Wed Sep 24 23:26:44 UTC 2025: **News Article: Israeli Strikes on Gaza Intensify Despite Ceasefire Demands**
**Gaza City** – Israeli forces have escalated their attacks on the Gaza Strip, with a deadly strike on a stadium housing displaced families in the Nuseirat refugee camp, killing at least 12 Palestinians, including women and children. This intensification comes despite growing international pressure for a ceasefire, voiced by numerous world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly.
The al-Ahli Stadium, serving as a refuge for those displaced by the ongoing conflict, was hit on Wednesday. Najwa, a displaced woman from Gaza City, told Al Jazeera, “We are frightened. Transportation is expensive. We can’t pay to bring our things.”
Wednesday saw at least 85 Palestinians killed across Gaza, more than double the previous day’s death toll. The UN has warned that the Israeli military is “inflicting terror” and forcing mass displacement in Gaza City.
Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir claims the army is pushing Palestinians southward for their safety. However, UN investigators reject these claims, suggesting Israel aims to establish permanent control over Gaza while ensuring a Jewish majority in the occupied West Bank and Israel.
Since the beginning of the war on October 7, at least 65,419 Palestinians have been killed and 167,160 wounded. The conflict began after a Hamas-led attack on Israel that resulted in 1,139 deaths and the capture of approximately 200 Israelis, of whom 40 are still captive.
At the UN General Assembly, the war on Gaza has been a central topic. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the violence, stating, “Those criminals who bully by murdering children are not worthy of the name ‘human being’.” Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa echoed this call, demanding an immediate ceasefire.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide revealed that ongoing talks are aimed at ending the conflict, building upon the “New York Declaration” roadmap. US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope for a breakthrough in the coming days, mentioning that President Trump’s 21-point peace plan has been circulated among world leaders.
However, previous peace proposals have been derailed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has faced criticism for unilaterally pulling out of previous ceasefire agreements and imposing a total aid blockade on Gaza, leading to famine. Netanyahu also faces an arrest warrant for war crimes issued by the International Criminal Court.
As Israel faces increasing international isolation, protests have erupted in Tel Aviv. Before departing for the UN meeting, Netanyahu rejected calls for a Palestinian state, stating, “The shameful surrender of some leaders to Palestinian terrorism will not bind Israel in any way.”