Death toll across Palestine rises to 16,456, over 42,000 wounded

(Patria) - Following the devastating Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, the death toll has risen to at least 16,456, with more than 42,250 people wounded, the Ministry of Health announced last night, the Palestinian news agency Wafa reports.

The Ministry stated in a press release that the number of victims in the Gaza Strip has reached 16,200, while the death toll in the West Bank has also risen to 265. In addition, the Ministry said, 42,000 Palestinians have been injured in Gaza, and nearly 3,250 in the West Bank.

Of the 35 hospitals in Gaza, 27 are non-functional due to bombing and depletion of fuel reserves, the statement highlights.

The Ministry said the health sector in Gaza is facing a severe crisis, as 55 ambulances have been completely lost, and dozens of health centers have ceased operations due to bombing and fuel shortages.

It added that aid distribution is limited to Rafah, with significant disruptions in Khan Yunis, while the central region remains isolated from the south.

There has been a significant increase in infectious diseases within UNRWA shelters in the south, including cases of diarrhea, acute respiratory infections, skin inflammations, and the spread of diseases such as hepatitis A, according to the Ministry of Health. Vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, the injured, and pregnant women, are facing challenging living conditions.

The Ministry of Health reported that more than 60 percent of homes in Gaza have been destroyed, including over 56,000 completely destroyed units and 224,000 partially destroyed units. The final number of destroyed units and buildings remains unavailable due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes.