Two Years of War: 66,000 Palestinians Killed, 169,000 Injured in Israel-Hamas Conflict

Two Years of War: Israel's Campaign Against Hamas Leaves Devastating Toll on Gaza GAZA CITY, GAZA STRIP - October 7, 2025 - The two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in catastrophic consequences for the people of Gaza, with at least 66,000 Palestinians killed and over 169,000 injured, according to conservative estimates by the Hamas-run Health Ministry. The war began on October 8, 2023, when Israeli forces launched a campaign against Hamas, citing the need to "destroy" the militant group and release Israeli hostages. However, the operation has instead led to widespread destruction and humanitarian crises in Gaza. "It's been two years of unimaginable suffering for the people of Gaza," said Dr. Mona El-Kurd, a Palestinian doctor who has worked tirelessly to provide medical aid to those affected by the conflict. "The blockade, the bombings, the lack of access to basic necessities - it's a never-ending nightmare." The Israeli government's stated objectives have been met with skepticism by many international observers. "Destroying" Hamas is not only a morally complex goal but also a difficult one to achieve, given the group's deep roots in Palestinian society. The conflict has also had significant regional and global implications. The United Nations has repeatedly condemned the violence, calling for an end to the blockade and a negotiated settlement between Israel and Hamas. Despite international pressure, the war shows no signs of abating. In recent weeks, Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Gaza, leading to further displacement and suffering among civilians. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire. According to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), over 90% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, leaving nearly 2 million people without access to basic necessities like food, water, and shelter. As the conflict enters its third year, international leaders are calling for a renewed effort to find a peaceful solution. "We need to work together to bring an end to this senseless violence," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. "The people of Gaza deserve better than to live in fear and poverty." For now, the people of Gaza remain trapped in a cycle of violence and suffering, with no clear end in sight. Background: The conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas fighters launched an attack on Israeli territory, killing nearly 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages back to Gaza. The Israeli government responded with a military campaign aimed at "destroying" Hamas and releasing the hostages. Additional Perspectives: "The war in Gaza is not just about Israel and Hamas - it's about the entire Palestinian people," said Dr. El-Kurd. "We need a negotiated settlement that addresses the root causes of this conflict." "Israel has the right to defend itself, but so do the people of Gaza," said Israeli human rights activist, Hagai El-Ad. "We need to find a way to balance security concerns with humanitarian needs." Current Status and Next Developments: The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides trading blame for the violence. International leaders are calling for a renewed effort to find a peaceful solution, but it remains unclear whether this will be achieved. In the meantime, the people of Gaza remain trapped in a cycle of violence and suffering, with no clear end in sight. *Reporting by Dw.*