Gaza Death Toll Surpasses 70,000 as Strikes Intensify Amid Truce

The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has exceeded 70,000. Gaza’s health ministry reported the grim milestone on Saturday. The number continues to climb despite a ceasefire.

Displaced Palestinians make their way after fleeing the northern part of Gaza amid an Israeli military operation, in Gaza City, November 5, 2024. REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa

The war began with a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel in October 2023. That attack killed about 1,200 people. It also saw 250 individuals taken hostage.

Ceasefire Fails to Halt Rising Casualty Count

The toll has risen significantly since the truce began. According to the health ministry, at least 350 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire took effect. The ministry operates under the Hamas-run administration.

Recent attacks have claimed more lives. A hospital in southern Gaza reported two Palestinian children were killed by Israeli fire. The brothers, aged 8 and 11, died in a drone strike.

Conflicting Claims Complicate the Situation

Israel’s military denies targeting civilians. It stated it killed two people who crossed into an Israeli-controlled area. The army said the individuals conducted suspicious activities and approached troops.

The statement did not refer to children. Hamas has urged mediators to pressure Israel. It accuses Israel of violating the ceasefire terms repeatedly.

The Israel Defense Forces say their operations target militants. They specifically target those accused of violating the truce. This includes operations along the “yellow line” demarcation.

Broader Impact and Regional Tensions

The conflict’s long-term impact is devastating. Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins. The humanitarian situation grows more dire with each passing day.

International pressure for a lasting peace is mounting. However, the recent violence suggests a fragile truce. The path to a permanent resolution remains deeply challenging.

The escalating Gaza death toll underscores the fragility of the current ceasefire. With the number of casualties still rising, international calls for a durable peace agreement are growing louder. The situation remains highly volatile for all civilians involved.

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What started the current conflict in Gaza?

The war began with a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel in October 2023. That attack resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths. It also involved the taking of 250 hostages.

How many people have been killed in Gaza?

The Gaza health ministry reports the death toll has now passed 70,000 people. This figure includes casualties both before and after the recent ceasefire. At least 350 have been killed since the truce began.

Is the ceasefire still active?

The U.S.-brokered ceasefire took effect on October 10. However, reports of violence and casualties have continued since that date. Both sides have accused the other of violating the truce terms.

What is the “yellow line” in Gaza?

The “yellow line” marks the position to which Israeli forces agreed to pull back. This was part of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement. The IDF states it targets militants who cross this line.

Have all the hostages been returned?

Almost all hostages, or their remains, have been returned. This was achieved through ceasefires and negotiated exchanges. The process has been a central part of diplomatic efforts.