AhlulBayt News Agency: A newly published study estimates that the number of Palestinians killed in Gaza since the start of Israel’s military assault in October 2023 could be significantly higher than official reports suggest. Researchers have reviewed extensive data sources, including hospital records, civilian death submissions, and independently compiled lists based on social media obituaries and death announcements.
By comparing these records, experts concluded that the actual death toll may range between 77,000 and 109,000—meaning the number of casualties is between 46% and 107% higher than figures officially documented by local authorities. If these estimates are accurate, this would represent between 4% and 5% of Gaza’s pre-war population.
The latest report from the Gaza Health Ministry states that Israel’s ongoing attacks have resulted in 52,787 confirmed Palestinian deaths. However, the ministry stressed that a substantial number of victims remain uncounted, as they are buried under rubble or trapped in areas that remain inaccessible due to continued Israeli airstrikes.
Medical personnel across Gaza have been struggling to gather accurate data as health infrastructure and communication networks have been severely damaged or destroyed by Israeli forces. Hospitals rely on patient records, emergency room reports, and an online submission system that allows families to report casualties, yet significant gaps remain due to persistent bombardments.
The study also highlights the indirect impact of Israel’s military campaign, noting that many deaths in Gaza result not only from direct strikes but from the collapse of critical medical services. The ongoing blockade has prevented access to food, clean water, electricity, and essential medical supplies, further worsening the humanitarian disaster.
According to researchers, determining an exact death toll may remain impossible even after the war ends. “A definitive count of how many have died in this war will be difficult to establish, and that moment may still be far off,” the study concluded.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military campaign continues without pause, with relentless air and artillery bombardments killing more civilians daily. Nineteen months into Israel’s war on Gaza, the devastation persists, with over 90% of Gaza’s 2.1 million population displaced, struggling to survive without adequate shelter, food, clean water, healthcare, education, or means to earn a livelihood.
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