Gaza Death Toll Surpasses 66,000 as Netanyahu Meets Trump

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a staggering death toll of over 66,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. This grim milestone was reported just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss efforts aimed at halting the military offensive that has ravaged the region.

In its latest report, the Gaza Health Ministry stated that the death count has reached 66,005, with an additional 168,162 individuals injured since the outbreak of hostilities following Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. In the past 24 hours alone, 79 individuals were reported dead, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The international community is increasing pressure on Israel to cease its military operations. In recent weeks, several Western nations have recognized the Palestinian state, defying Israeli objections. The European Union is reportedly considering potential sanctions against Israel, while calls for cultural and sports boycotts have intensified.

During a recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, Netanyahu faced a walkout by numerous delegates who protested Israel’s actions. Despite this backlash, he remained resolute, insisting that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas.

While Trump has largely supported Israel’s actions, his patience appears to be wearing thin, particularly after Israel’s controversial airstrike in Qatar earlier this month, which aimed to eliminate Hamas leadership but has since drawn international condemnation. Following stalled ceasefire talks, the upcoming meeting between Trump and Netanyahu is expected to focus on a new 21-point proposal for an immediate ceasefire.

The proposal reportedly includes provisions for the release of all hostages currently held by Hamas—approximately 48 individuals, around 20 of whom are believed to be alive—and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Arab leaders have been briefed on the proposal during discussions held in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

A Hamas official has confirmed that the group is aware of the proposal but is yet to receive an official offer from mediators from Egypt and Qatar. The official stated that Hamas is willing to “study any proposals positively and responsibly.” Previously, the group indicated its readiness to release all hostages in exchange for a cessation of hostilities and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

The Israeli offensive has caused extensive destruction across Gaza, displacing approximately 90% of its population and leading to what experts describe as a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with conditions in Gaza City deteriorating to famine levels. While the health ministry does not distinguish between militants and civilians in its death toll, it has reported that women and children comprise about half of the deceased. The United Nations and numerous independent experts consider these figures to be a reliable estimate of casualties.

As Netanyahu and Trump prepare for their discussions, the situation on the ground remains dire, with the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and a resolution to the conflict more pressing than ever.