Over 66,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This revelation comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss halting the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza.
Netanyahu is facing mounting international pressure to end the war, with key Western allies, including Canada, recognizing a Palestinian state despite Israeli objections. The European Union is considering sanctions against Israel, and there are calls for a sports and cultural boycott of the country.
Addressing world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly, Netanyahu insisted that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza. Despite some delegates walking out during his speech, the Israeli leader remains resolute in his military actions in Gaza City.
President Trump, a staunch supporter of Israel, is expected to present a new proposal to end the conflict during his meeting with Netanyahu. The proposal includes a 21-point ceasefire plan, which involves the release of hostages within 48 hours and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Ceasefire negotiations have stalled since Israel’s controversial strike in Doha, Qatar, with 48 hostages still being held captive in Gaza. Hamas officials have expressed readiness to consider proposals positively and responsibly, emphasizing their willingness to release hostages in exchange for an end to the war and a complete Israeli withdrawal from the strip.
In efforts to push for a ceasefire, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee is set to visit Cairo for discussions with Egyptian officials. The deteriorating relationship between Egypt and Israel, exacerbated by recent events, raises concerns about potential overflow of displaced Palestinians into Egypt and military developments in the Sinai peninsula.
Reports from local hospitals in central Gaza indicate ongoing violence, with explosions reported throughout the city. The death toll continues to rise, with the Health Ministry reporting over 66,000 fatalities and 168,162 wounded since the conflict began in 2023. The toll includes women and children, comprising around half of the deceased.
Israel’s military actions in Gaza have resulted in widespread destruction, displacement of the majority of the population, and a dire humanitarian crisis. Gaza City is on the brink of famine, highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire and lasting peace in the region.
