Credited from: AA
Since October 2023, **over 67,000 Palestinians** have died in Gaza due to intensive bombardment by Israeli forces, with nearly **20,000 children** among the casualties. The Gaza Health Ministry indicates that **90% of those killed** are civilians, with many bodies still trapped under debris, significantly inflating the death toll as rescue operations struggle amidst ongoing military actions. These conditions have led to accusations of genocide against Israel, which the government strongly denies, asserting its military actions as necessary for self-defense against Hamas, classified as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the US and EU, according to trtglobal and Al Jazeera.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated severely, with nearly **90% of the population** facing **acute food insecurity** and **over 1.9 million** individuals displaced due to systematic destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals. Israeli airstrikes have damaged or destroyed around **80-90% of buildings**, with **69,000 deaths** reported since the onset of the conflict, complications exacerbated by restrictions on aid and food imports. Many children suffer from severe malnutrition, leading to tragic fatal consequences, as noted in reports from aa and India Times.
The devastation has compelled both sides to engage in peace talks, with **U.S. and Arab countries** facilitating discussions aimed at halting hostilities and addressing humanitarian needs. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizes a **"total victory"** strategy, which includes the total disarmament of Hamas, while Hamas insists on the need for an immediate halt to military actions and the right for refugees to return home. The conflicting objectives of both parties complicate the negotiations, as highlighted by BBC and NPR.
Moreover, the Israeli government's actions throughout the conflict, including the **targeting of healthcare facilities** and humanitarian workers, have led to global outrage and calls for accountability from various human rights groups and nations. The ongoing blockade on aid has hurt Gaza's ability to cope, as evidenced by over **450 deaths attributed to starvation** and increasing reports of **psychological trauma** among children, according to findings from AA, India Times, and trtglobal.
As negotiations progress, both parties face immense pressures domestically and internationally. For Hamas, the commitment to resistance remains strong, while for Israel, achieving a diplomatic resolution that is perceived as a victory is crucial for Netanyahu’s government amidst ongoing public protests over war strategies. Both groups are aware that negotiations hold the potential for changes that could impact the future governance of Gaza, as detailed by BBC and NPR.