Gaza death toll surpasses 72,200 since October 2023, Health Ministry says

2026-03-26 - 10:50

The Palestinian death toll from Israel's two-year military campaign in Gaza has reached 72,267, the Health Ministry announced Thursday, as casualties continue to mount despite a ceasefire in place since October 2025. The figures underscore the staggering human cost of the conflict. Recent casualties According to a ministry statement, hospitals received two bodies and 17 wounded individuals over the past 24 hours, with one person succumbing to earlier injuries. Palestinian officials report that Israeli forces have carried out daily violations of the ceasefire that began Oct. 10, 2025. Since the truce took effect, at least 691 people have been killed and 1,876 injured by Israeli fire, the ministry said. Devastating toll With the latest figures, the total number of wounded since October 2023 has reached 171,976. The war, which began Oct. 8, 2023, has resulted in widespread destruction, with approximately 90% of Gaza's civilian infrastructure reduced to rubble. The UN estimates reconstruction costs at around $70 billion, highlighting the immense scale of rebuilding required. Ceasefire violations The ongoing casualties come despite a ceasefire agreement meant to halt hostilities. Palestinian officials say Israeli forces have consistently breached the terms of the truce, continuing military operations that have added to the already catastrophic toll. The conflict has drawn international condemnation and calls for accountability over alleged violations of international law.