At least 72 killed in Gaza as death toll surpasses 61,000

Israeli airstrikes killed at least 72 Palestinians in Gaza on Friday (August 8), with 314 others reported injured, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

The total death toll since the beginning of Israel's military operation in October 2023 has now exceeded 61,000, with more than 150,000 others wounded, reports Al Jazeera.

The ministry clarified that the death toll only includes those brought to hospitals, as many bodies remain trapped under rubble or on the streets due to ongoing bombardment and a lack of recovery equipment.

Meanwhile, Israel has imposed severe restrictions on food and humanitarian aid, contributing to a growing famine in Gaza. The death toll from malnutrition and starvation has reached 201, including 98 children. Additionally, 1,772 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to collect relief supplies.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have been conducting military operations since the October 7 Hamas attack. Following a brief ceasefire in March 2024, the second phase of the operation resumed and has claimed nearly 10,000 more lives in the past five months.

Despite calls for a ceasefire from the United Nations and other international bodies, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation will continue until Hamas is fully weakened and hostages are freed.