Health officials in Gaza reported on Friday that Israel’s ongoing campaign to dismantle Hamas has resulted in the deaths of over 20,000 Palestinians. Israel expanded its offensive, compelling tens of thousands more individuals to evacuate their homes.
The casualties in Gaza represent nearly 1% of the territory’s population before the conflict, underscoring the immense toll of the 11-week-old conflict.
Israel’s sustained aerial and ground attacks constitute one of the most severe military operations in recent history, displacing almost 85% of Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants and causing widespread destruction in the small coastal area. A United Nations report, in conjunction with other agencies, revealed that more than half a million people in Gaza, a quarter of its populace, are facing severe food shortages.
The conflict ignited when Hamas militants breached the border on Oct. 7, resulting in around 1,200 fatalities and approximately 240 hostages. Israel is committed to continuing the offensive until Hamas is eradicated from power in Gaza and all hostages are liberated.
