100 Days of Devastation. Israel-Hamas Conflict Takes Heavy Toll
In what has become the longest, bloodiest, and most destructive clash between Israel and Hamas, the war has reached a grim milestone, marking its 100th day. The conflict erupted on October 7 with a deadly Hamas attack in southern Israel, triggering a series of events that have left a devastating impact on both sides.
Israeli Actions: Unrelenting Airstrikes and Ground Offensive in Gaza
Israel’s response to the initial attack has been relentless. Conducting airstrikes and a ground offensive in Gaza, the Israeli military has caused unprecedented destruction, displacing the majority of Palestinians. Over half of Gaza’s hospitals have been shuttered, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and leading to widespread hunger among the population.
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Current Military Operations: Adjustments in the North, Intensification in the South
While the Israeli military has scaled back operations in the hard-hit north, it maintains full-strength operations in the south, where it believes Hamas leaders are hiding. The conflict has also spilled over borders, with ongoing cross-border skirmishes between Lebanon’s Hezbollah militia and Israel.
Casualties: Heavy Toll on Lives
The human cost of this conflict is staggering. In Gaza, 23,843 Palestinians have lost their lives, while in Israel, the toll exceeds 1,200. The West Bank has also witnessed 347 Palestinian casualties, adding to the grim statistics.
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Civilian Toll: Women and Minors Bear the Brunt
The toll on civilians, particularly in Gaza, is alarming. Though the exact civilian toll is unknown, an estimated two-thirds are women and minors. On October 7 alone, 790 civilians lost their lives in Israel. The conflict has also claimed the lives of U.N. staff (148), health workers (at least 337), and journalists (82) in Gaza.
Soldiers/Militants: Sacrifices on Both Sides
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on military personnel. On October 7, 314 Israeli soldiers lost their lives, while over 8,000 militants were killed by Israeli forces. In the Gaza ground offensive, 188 Israeli soldiers perished, with an additional nine on the northern front. Tragically, 29 Israeli soldiers lost their lives due to friendly fire or accidents in Gaza and the north.
Destruction/Humanitarian Situation in Gaza: A Region in Ruins
Gaza’s infrastructure has been severely impacted, with 45-56% of buildings likely damaged or destroyed. Hospitals are partially functioning (15 out of 36), leaving the population in dire need of medical assistance. The crisis has left 576,600 Palestinian civilians facing “catastrophic hunger and starvation” (26% of the population), with over 69% of school buildings damaged, 142 mosques, 3 churches, and 121 ambulances also damaged.
Injuries: Thousands Suffering
The number of injuries is overwhelming, with 60,005 Palestinians injured in Gaza, more than 4,000 in the West Bank, and 12,536 Israelis suffering various injuries. Among them, 1,085 Israeli soldiers were injured in the ground offensive, and 2,496 have been injured since October 7.
Displacement: Mass Exodus from Gaza
The conflict has forced 1.9 million Palestinians to flee their homes in Gaza, constituting 85% of the region’s population. In contrast, 249,263 Israelis from northern and southern border communities have been displaced, making up 2.6% of the population.
Hostages/Prisoners: A Tragic Human Toll
On October 7, Hamas took 253 hostages, with 121 released, but 132 remain in the strip. Tragically, 33 hostages lost their lives in Hamas captivity. During a weeklong pause in fighting, 240 Palestinian prisoners were released.
Munitions: 14,000 Rockets Launched Towards Israel
The conflict has seen a staggering 14,000 rockets launched toward Israel, underscoring the intensity and volatility of the situation.
As the Israel-Hamas conflict enters its 100th day, the toll on lives, infrastructure, and the overall well-being of the affected populations remains deeply concerning. The international community continues to call for an end to the hostilities, urging diplomatic solutions to bring lasting peace to the region.