Deir al-Balah, June 11: The Palestinian death toll in the 20-month Israel-Hamas war has surpassed 55,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which includes both civilians and combatants, with women and children making up over half of the casualties.
Since the war began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, more than 127,000 people have been wounded, and many remain buried under rubble or in inaccessible areas.
The ministry, part of Gaza’s Hamas-run government but staffed by medical professionals, maintains detailed records that generally align with independent sources, though Israel disputes their accuracy.
The conflict has devastated Gaza, with Israeli forces destroying vast areas and displacing about 90% of the population.
Recently, Israel converted much of southern Gaza, including the largely abandoned city of Rafah, into a military buffer zone.
A blockade imposed by Israel after ending a ceasefire raised famine fears; while eased in May, aid deliveries remain chaotic and limited due to Israeli restrictions, lawlessness, and looting. Israel accuses Hamas of diverting aid, a claim denied by the UN and aid organizations.
Militarily, Hamas has suffered setbacks, with Israel claiming to have killed over 20,000 militants, though without independent verification.
Hamas still holds 55 hostages, fewer than half believed alive, and controls some areas outside military zones despite rare protests.
The war began with Hamas killing around 1,200, mostly civilians, and abducting 251 hostages, with over half later released.
Israel has rescued eight hostages and recovered many remains.
The war has caused widespread destruction and displacement, with hundreds of thousands living in makeshift camps and the healthcare system overwhelmed.
Hamas demands the release of Palestinian prisoners, a ceasefire, and Israeli withdrawal in exchange for hostages, but Israel, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, rejects these terms.
Netanyahu insists on continuing the war until all hostages return and Hamas is defeated, planning to control Gaza indefinitely and encourage Palestinian emigration—a plan widely condemned as forced displacement. (AP)
