Gaza death toll from Israel-Hamas war exceeds 44,000, officials report
The death toll in Gaza from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has exceeded 44,000, according to Palestinian health officials. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that over half of the fatalities are women and children. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in around 1,200 deaths and 250 abductions. The Israeli military claims to have killed over 17,000 militants. Humanitarian aid to Gaza has significantly decreased in recent weeks, raising concerns about famine in the region. Efforts for a cease-fire have stalled, with both sides blaming each other for the lack of progress.