The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has taken a devastating toll in Gaza, with the number of fatalities exceeding 5,000 according to reports from local authorities. The situation has escalated with intensified Israeli airstrikes in response to Hamas attacks, prompting urgent appeals for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), issued a renewed plea for “sustained safe passage” of medical supplies and fuel to ensure the continuity of healthcare services. Ghebreyesus stressed the immense impact these decisions have on saving lives, making this a matter of utmost urgency.
Recent media reports, quoting the Gaza Ministry of Health, indicate that the death toll since October 7 has risen to a staggering 5,087. Shockingly, women and children make up over 62 percent of the fatalities, with more than 15,273 individuals sustaining injuries.
Tragically, the conflict has also taken a toll on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The latest situation report reveals that 35 UN staff members have lost their lives, while an additional 18 have been injured in the line of duty.
According to UNRWA, approximately 600,000 internally displaced individuals are seeking shelter in 150 agency facilities, with 420,000 finding refuge in 93 shelters located in the Middle, Khan Younis, and Rafah areas in the south of Gaza.
A recent humanitarian update by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports over 1,000 individuals missing, presumed to be trapped or deceased under the rubble. The situation is dire and requires immediate attention.
Gaza’s largest medical facility, Shifa Hospital, is overwhelmed, currently treating around 5,000 patients—far surpassing its usual capacity of approximately 700 patients. This influx of casualties further highlights the critical need for medical supplies and resources.
On the Israeli side, OCHA cites official Israeli sources confirming that around 1,400 people have lost their lives. The majority of these casualties resulted from the Hamas attacks on October 7, which triggered this latest round of violence.
OCHA’s report also underscores the magnitude of the situation, revealing that the reported fatality toll is over three times the cumulative number of Israelis killed since the recording of casualties began in 2005.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands immediate attention and resolution. The international community must redouble efforts to broker a ceasefire and provide the necessary support to alleviate the suffering endured by innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
