Death Toll from Israeli Offensive Rises to Nearly 56,000

The death toll from Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza has reached 55,998, with at least 131,559 people injured since the conflict erupted in October 2023, according to the latest figures released by the Gaza Ministry of Health on Monday.

The ministry also reported that 17 people were killed and more than 136 wounded in the past 24 hours alone, following Israeli airstrikes that targeted aid distribution centers across the besieged enclave.

The sharp increase in casualties comes amid intensifying hostilities and growing concern over the humanitarian collapse in Gaza, where medical facilities, shelters, and critical infrastructure have been severely damaged or destroyed. Aid agencies have warned that continued attacks on relief hubs are obstructing the delivery of life-saving assistance to a population already on the brink of famine.

Also, the Israeli military claimed that its operations are focused on dismantling Hamas's infrastructure and securing the release of hostages taken during the group's October 7 assault on southern Israel. However, Palestinian authorities and international human rights groups have accused Israel of disproportionate use of force and targeting civilian areas.