Death Toll in Gaza Surpasses 50,000 as Israeli Bombardment Continues

The ongoing Israeli military campaign in Gaza has resulted in more than 50,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The humanitarian crisis has worsened since Israel resumed its offensive on March 18, following a two-month ceasefire.

Since the resumption of hostilities, Israeli airstrikes and ground operations have claimed the lives of 673 people, including more than 200 children, and injured 1,233 others, health officials reported. The latest figures also include 233 previously unaccounted-for victims, whose deaths were confirmed by a judicial committee.

The Israeli government has dismissed the reported casualty figures, arguing that the health ministry operates under Hamas’ rule. However, international agencies and experts continue to verify the ministry’s data, reinforcing concerns over the scale of civilian casualties.

Israel Expands Military Operations

The Israeli military has intensified its ground invasion, advancing into northern, central, and southern Gaza. Defense Minister Israel Katz recently ordered the seizure of additional territory, warning that Israel may annex parts of Gaza if Hamas does not release hostages taken on October 7.

On March 19, Katz cautioned that the renewed assault would be more destructive than previous strikes, declaring that unless Hamas releases hostages and is eliminated, Gaza faces “complete destruction and devastation.”

Airstrikes and Leadership Targets

Israeli airstrikes have been relentless, with 30 more Palestinians reportedly killed in Rafah and Khan Younis on Sunday. Among the casualties were three municipal employees, local medics confirmed.

Hamas announced the death of Salah al-Bardaweel, a high-ranking political leader, during the latest bombardments. Al-Bardaweel was a member of Hamas’ political office, having played a key role in truce negotiations with Israel in 2009.

Rising Opposition and Protests

The renewed Israeli offensive has sparked internal protests within Israel. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Jerusalem, with some criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the war. Despite opposition, Netanyahu has reaffirmed that Israel’s primary objective is the complete dismantling of Hamas’ military and political control in Gaza.

With no immediate signs of de-escalation, international pressure continues to mount for a ceasefire, as humanitarian conditions deteriorate rapidly across the war-torn region.