More than 30,000 people have died in Gaza since Israel’s war with Hamas began in October, according to CNN, which cited the health ministry in the beleaguered territory on Thursday.
The towering figure in Gaza symbolizes the months-long agony of Palestinians displaced by Israel’s bombardment and ground raids, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis.
Despite international outcry, Israel’s war in Gaza has received support from the United States, its biggest ally and greatest donor of military aid.
The dead toll raises concerns that more than 1 million people are jammed into Rafah, where Israel is set to launch a new offensive at the start of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Gaza health ministry does not distinguish between civilians and fighters, but has stated in recent reports that approximately 70% of the casualties are women and children.
Israel estimates about 10,000 Hamas fighters have been killed since October 7. Over 1,200 people in Israel were killed during Hamas’ attacks on that day, and more than 250 were taken hostage in Gaza.
CNN said that it cannot independently verify the casualty tolls in Gaza or the Israeli estimates of Hamas fighters killed.
