Israel's Two-Year War on Gaza: A Devastating Toll
In the aftermath of a surprise attack by Hamas fighters on October 7, 2023, Israel launched a military campaign aimed at "destroying" the Islamist group and rescuing hostages. The conflict has left an estimated 66,000 Palestinians dead and over 169,000 injured in Gaza since then.
According to conservative estimates by the Hamas-run Health Ministry of Gaza, at least 80 civilians have been killed in the operations carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). However, international agencies believe that the true death toll is significantly higher. The International Organization for Migration has reported that nearly 90% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, leaving 1.9 million people internally displaced.
"We are witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza," said Dr. Ayman Abu al-Oun, Director-General of the Hamas-run Health Ministry. "The blockade and the bombing campaign have left our hospitals overwhelmed and our people without access to basic necessities."
The Israeli government's stated objectives for the campaign were clear: to destroy Hamas and release hostages taken during the initial attack. However, critics argue that the operation has resulted in disproportionate harm to civilians and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.
"This is a war crime," said UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland. "The international community must hold Israel accountable for its actions."
Background on the conflict reveals a complex web of historical grievances and competing claims to territory. The Gaza Strip has been under Israeli blockade since 2007, with restrictions on movement and access to resources severely impacting the local population.
As the war enters its third year, there are growing concerns about the long-term consequences for both Israelis and Palestinians. "The cycle of violence must be broken," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a recent visit to the region. "We need to work towards a lasting peace that addresses the legitimate aspirations of both peoples."
The current status of the conflict remains uncertain, with ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas yet to yield significant progress. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with aid agencies warning of a looming health crisis.
In the words of Dr. Abu al-Oun, "We need an immediate end to the blockade and a ceasefire that allows us to rebuild our homes and our lives."
*Reporting by Dw.*
