Thu Jan 09 11:33:05 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Death Toll Surpasses 46,000 as Israel-Hamas War Enters 16th Month

**Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip –** The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The grim milestone was announced Thursday, marking 16 months of relentless fighting with no resolution in sight. The Ministry reported a total of 46,006 Palestinian deaths and 109,378 injuries, with women and children accounting for over half of the fatalities. The exact number of civilian versus combatant casualties remains undisclosed.

The Israeli military claims to have killed over 17,000 militants, but has not provided supporting evidence. Israel maintains its efforts to minimize civilian casualties, attributing Palestinian deaths to Hamas operating within residential areas and shelters, including hospitals.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, and the abduction of around 250. At least 100 hostages remain within Gaza, with Israeli authorities estimating that a significant number perished either during the initial attack or in captivity.

The conflict has devastated Gaza, displacing roughly 90% of its 2.3 million inhabitants. Hundreds of thousands are now living in overcrowded tent camps, facing critical shortages of food and essential supplies.

Despite recent indications of progress toward a ceasefire and hostage release, indirect talks mediated by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt have repeatedly stalled. Significant obstacles remain to achieving a lasting peace.

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