New York, December 01, 2025
More than 72,500 people have been killed in Gaza since the Israeli military offensive began in October 2023, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, as the conflict enters its 21st month amid growing international concern over civilian casualties and humanitarian conditions.
Casualty Figures and Disputes
The Gaza Health Ministry (GHM) reports over 70,525 Palestinian deaths and 2,109 Israeli fatalities since the onset of the conflict. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim to have killed between 13,000 and 17,000 militants, asserting that militants account for approximately 47% of deaths in Gaza. These figures are contested by independent analysts and humanitarian groups, who emphasize a significantly higher civilian death toll.
Civilian Impact and Vulnerable Groups
The overwhelming majority of the Palestinian fatalities are civilians. The GHM states that around 80% of those killed are women and children. The death toll also includes 248 journalists and media workers, 120 academics, and over 224 humanitarian aid personnel, with 179 employees affiliated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) among the casualties. This extensive loss among non-combatants underscores the severe human cost of the ongoing hostilities.
Context of the Conflict
Having extended beyond 20 months, the Israeli-Gaza conflict continues to trigger extensive displacement and a deteriorating humanitarian crisis within Gaza. Military operations remain active, contributing to fluctuating casualty numbers and widespread infrastructure damage. The protracted nature of the conflict has amplified calls for urgent humanitarian access and intervention.
International Response and Urgency
Global leaders, the United Nations, and multiple human rights organizations have condemned the high rate of civilian casualties. These entities press for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid delivery to alleviate the crisis. The scale and persistence of violence have positioned this conflict among the deadliest in the region’s recent history, attracting sustained international scrutiny and diplomatic efforts.
As military engagements persist, the dire humanitarian realities continue to prompt urgent calls for a negotiated resolution to prevent further loss of life and to stabilize the region.