Gaza Death Toll Surpasses 68,500 Amid Deepening Health Crisis

Israeli strikes in Gaza have resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating at least 60 to over 63 people killed, including many children, across various neighborhoods and refugee camps. Despite a fragile ceasefire agreement reached earlier in October, Israeli military actions continue, causing fatalities and injuries, and violating the terms of the ceasefire as per Gaza health and civil defense sources. Hamas has condemned these attacks and accused Israel of deliberately obstructing agreements, including the recovery of captives and maintaining closure of the Rafah crossing, which is critical for Gaza's lifeline. The ongoing conflict has led to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with the Palestinian death toll exceeding 68,500 and injuries surpassing 170,000 since October 2023. Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, facing severe shortages of medicine, surgical tools, and fuel, exacerbating the healthcare crisis and leading to increased preventable diseases and mortality rates. The ceasefire has provided little relief, as medical aid remains insufficient and the healthcare infrastructure continues to collapse under the strain.