Gaza death toll/ Israel Hamas conflict/ Gaza humanitarian crisis/ yearlong Gaza war/ Kamal Adwan Hospital raid/ Newslooks/ GAZA/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that more than 43,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza over the yearlong conflict, with over half of the casualties being women and children. Recent Israeli operations have focused on northern Gaza, including a raid on a hospital in Beit Lahiya, where Israel claims militants were present.
Gaza War Toll Surpasses 43,000 as Conflict Intensifies Quick Look
- Death Toll Update: Palestinian Health Ministry reports over 43,000 deaths in Gaza, including many women and children.
- Hospital Raid: Israeli forces detained 100 suspected militants at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya.
- Military Allegations: Israel claims hospitals are used by militants, while Palestinian officials deny this.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Over 400,000 people remain in northern Gaza, with aid shortages worsening.
Gaza Conflict Claims 43,000 Lives, Half Reported as Women & Children
Deep Look
The Gaza Health Ministry reported Monday that the death toll in Gaza from the yearlong Israel-Hamas war has exceeded 43,000. The ministry stated that more than half of those killed were women and children, underscoring the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians. This figure includes 96 individuals who died over the past two days, marking an uptick in casualties as Israel’s operations in Gaza intensify.
Israeli Operations Intensify, Including Hospital Raid
Israeli forces have ramped up their offensive in northern Gaza, recently raiding Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, where they detained 100 people they allege to be Hamas militants. According to the World Health Organization, 44 male hospital staff members were among those detained. Palestinian health officials claimed the hospital sustained significant damage in the raid and maintained that Israeli actions are endangering civilians, disputing Israeli claims that the facility was being used for militant activities.
An Israeli military official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, reported finding weapons at the hospital and stated that some of the detainees had allegedly disguised themselves as medical staff. The official added that 88 patients and medical staff had been relocated from the hospital to other facilities before the raid and that 30,000 liters of fuel and other medical supplies were brought in by troops to support ongoing operations at the hospital.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Northern Gaza
Israel has urged residents to evacuate northern Gaza, where fighting has escalated over the past three weeks. The UN reported that at least 400,000 people remain in the north and face severe food shortages as humanitarian aid has dwindled. Health and humanitarian organizations warn that the crisis is worsening, with limited medical supplies and food available for the displaced population.
The Gaza Health Ministry reports at least 43,020 people have died since the conflict began, with 101,110 reported injuries. The ministry did not distinguish between civilian and militant casualties in its count.
Background of the Ongoing Conflict
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which started on October 7, 2023, was triggered by a large-scale assault by Hamas-led militants who breached Israel’s security fence, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, primarily civilians. During the attack, 250 individuals were abducted, which further intensified the hostilities between the two parties. Israel’s response included airstrikes, ground operations, and security raids, leading to widespread displacement and civilian casualties in Gaza.
Looking Ahead
With Israeli forces planning to continue operations in the northern city of Jabaliya for several more weeks, the humanitarian situation is expected to further deteriorate. The international community continues to call for an increase in humanitarian aid to the region, while both sides remain entrenched in their positions.
