Israeli forces launched intense air and ground assaults across Gaza early Friday, killing at least 70 Palestinians, with medical officials warning the toll could rise.

The attacks—focused on Khan Yunis, Gaza City, and northern Beit Lahia—left numerous casualties, many of them women and children.

World Food Programme issued an urgent alert, stating immediate food assistance is needed for thousands of starving residents trapped in Gaza.

Israel’s blockade continues to block aid leaving families, especially children without basic nutrition. Mental health among the population is deteriorating rapidly under relentless attacks and worsening scarcity.

In Al-Salam, south of Khan Yunis, airstrikes on Saturday morning killed two members of the Abushamala family and wounded several others.

In a significant escalation, Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for firing Zulfiqar ballistic missiles toward Israel’s main international hub, Ben Gurion Airport on Friday night.

Spokesperson Yahya Sarei stated the missiles targeted a nearby military site, but Israeli sources, including The Times of Israel reported the missiles were intercepted before impact.

Houthis also launched missiles toward a U.S. aircraft carrier patrolling the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. They claim to have shot down an American MQ-9 drone during the operation. Meanwhile, U.S. strikes on Ras Issar oil terminal in Yemen left over 80 people dead, raising regional tensions further.

Efforts to resolve long-standing nuclear tensions between Iran and the U.S. resumed in Rome, with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attending indirect talks brokered by Oman. The talks follow a reportedly “constructive” first round held weeks ago in Muscat.

Iranian officials suggest a possible easing of sanctions if progress continues. However, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains cautious, saying he is neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic.

US President Donald Trump reiterated his stance on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, despite previously withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal and reinstating sanctions during his first term.

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As airstrikes rain down on Gaza and missile exchanges ripple across borders, the Middle East faces a growing humanitarian and geopolitical crisis. With diplomacy hanging in the balance and aid trapped at borders, the region stands at a critical turning point.