Palestinian Death Toll Exceeds 70,000 as Strikes Continue Despite Gaza Ceasefire

The Palestinian death toll has exceeded 70,000 since the Israel-Hamas war began, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The number continues to rise even after the October 10 ceasefire, as Israel carries out strikes it claims are responses to truce violations, and as more bodies are retrieved from rubble across the territory.

Gaza’s Health Ministry — part of the Hamas-run administration but staffed by medical professionals whose data is widely regarded as reliable internationally — reported the toll at 70,100.

Children Killed in Southern Gaza

Doctors at Nasser Hospital said two boys, aged 8 and 11, were killed when an Israeli drone struck near a school sheltering displaced families in Beni Suhaila. Israel’s military acknowledged killing two individuals who “conducted suspicious activities” after crossing into an Israeli-controlled zone but did not mention children in its statement.

Since the ceasefire, at least 352 Palestinians have been killed across Gaza, though the Health Ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Hamas accused Israel of “ceasefire violations” and urged mediators to intervene.

US-Led Gaza Governance Plan Still Unfolding

A US proposal for Gaza’s future — still in early stages — envisions:

• An international stabilization force

• A transitional authority overseen by President Donald Trump

• A possible pathway to a future Palestinian state

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants killed around 1,200 people in Israel and took more than 250 hostages. Most hostages or their remains have since been returned, but two — one Israeli and one Thai — remain unaccounted for. Israelis again rallied in Tel Aviv demanding their return.

Regional Escalations: Syria, Lebanon, West Bank

Israeli military operations have expanded beyond Gaza in recent weeks:

Syria:

Syrian officials said Israeli forces raided a village and opened fire during confrontations with residents, killing 13 people. Israel claimed it was targeting militants preparing attacks; six Israeli soldiers were wounded.

Lebanon:

Israel intensified strikes on Hezbollah positions, accusing the group of rearming.
Hezbollah called on Pope Leo XIV, currently visiting the region, to condemn “aggression.”

West Bank:

Footage aired by Arab news channels appears to show Israeli troops shooting two men after they surrendered. The Israeli military says it is investigating.
The Palestinian Red Crescent reported 10 Palestinians injured in settler attacks near Bethlehem.

Violence and tensions remain high across the region despite the ongoing ceasefire.