The Gaza Conflict: A Humanitarian Crisis

In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the death toll in Gaza has reached a grim milestone. Health officials report over 44, 000 people have lost their lives. Women and children make up more than half of the fatalities, according to local health authorities. The Israeli military claims to have killed over 17, 000 militants, but has not provided evidence to support this figure. Meanwhile, a rocket attack from Lebanon killed a man in his 30s and injured two others in northern Israel. The attack took place near a playground in the town of Nahariya, close to the border with Lebanon. The conflict started in October 2023 when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing around 1, 200 people and abducting another 250. Over 100 hostages are still trapped in Gaza, with at least a third believed to be dead. Most of the remaining hostages were released during a ceasefire last year. The Israeli offensive has caused widespread destruction and displaced 90% of Gaza's 2. 3 million inhabitants. Israel's military action is a response to Hamas' use of residential areas for military activities, including tunnels and rocket launchers. In Lebanon, Hezbollah's attacks have resulted in over 3, 500 deaths and displaced more than 1 million people. On the Israeli side, Hezbollah's aerial attacks have killed over 70 people and driven around 60, 000 from their homes. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister, and Hamas officials, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This decision could complicate efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.