CAIRO (AP) – The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has resulted in a staggering death toll, with Gaza's Health Ministry reporting over 66,000 Palestinians killed. In an announcement made on Sunday, the ministry stated that the total number of fatalities has reached 66,005, alongside 168,162 individuals injured since Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. Among the latest casualties, 79 were reportedly brought to hospitals within the past 24 hours.
As the conflict escalates, Israel's military operations in Gaza are intensifying. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington, where he is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday. The military offensive has led to widespread destruction across Gaza, displacing approximately 90% of the local population. Experts have warned that the humanitarian crisis is reaching catastrophic levels, with reports of famine conditions emerging particularly in Gaza City.
The Health Ministry, which operates under the Hamas-run administration, has indicated that it does not make a distinction between civilians and militants in its reported figures. However, it has highlighted that women and children constitute about half of those killed in the conflict. Many independent experts and the United Nations have recognized the ministry's statistics as credible estimates in light of the ongoing situation.
Amidst the chaos, international humanitarian efforts are being mobilized, but the challenges remain immense. Aid organizations are striving to provide medical assistance and essential services to those affected by the relentless military actions. Field hospitals are operating in various locations, including Muwasi, near Khan Younis in southern Gaza, to address the urgent medical needs of the injured.
The violent confrontation continues to evolve, with both sides engaging in hostilities that underscore the deep-rooted tensions in the region. The impact of these events resonates not only within the borders of Gaza and Israel but also across the broader Middle East and the international community, as calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolutions grow louder amidst the humanitarian devastation.
