TEL AVIV - The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has resulted in approximately 20,000 deaths and the displacement of 1.9 million Palestinians, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. The Israeli Defense Forces' relentless bombing campaign and ground invasion have left a trail of destruction, leveling an estimated 40,000 buildings, as reported by the United Nations. The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, marked by a lack of shelter, food, clean water, and medical care, has led to mounting international concern.

The Health Ministry revealed that approximately 70% of the casualties are women and children. However, these numbers do not account for those who remain buried under the rubble of the bombed structures. The scale of devastation has prompted George Readings, the International Rescue Committee's lead crisis analyst, to describe Gaza as "the deadliest place for civilians in the world at this point in time."

The war has severely impacted the healthcare system, with only nine out of 36 hospitals in Gaza operating partially, according to the World Health Organization. Additionally, militant group Hamas has reportedly taken around 240 people hostage, with over 100 hostages being freed during a temporary halt in fighting. The fate of the remaining 120 captives remains uncertain.

The situation has led to a chorus of international voices calling for a ceasefire. President Joe Biden, in his strongest criticism yet, expressed concern over Israel's indiscriminate bombing. Biden also criticized the Israeli government for impeding progress towards a long-term solution, citing opposition within the Israeli cabinet to a two-state solution.

Paul Salem, president of the Middle East Institute, highlighted the substantial impact the conflict has had on public opinion towards Israel in the Middle East. Salem emphasized that the United States is the key player that can exert pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until all hostages are freed and Hamas is eliminated from Gaza. However, Netanyahu is facing mounting domestic pressure as his approval ratings plummet due to failure to prevent the initial terror attack and secure the release of the remaining hostages.

The recent revelation that three hostages were mistakenly killed by the Israeli military has fueled outrage among the Israeli public. Thousands of people gathered outside the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv, demanding more decisive action from the government.

Inside Gaza, Palestinians seeking refuge in the designated "safe zone" of Rafah express a desire for peace and security. However, the fear of not being able to return home or being forced to leave the Gaza Strip haunts many.

With no end in sight for the conflict, the international community remains concerned about the alarming death toll and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The urgency to find a resolution is crucial to prevent further loss of life and to restore stability to the region.

- This article is based on the provided information and does not reflect the views or opinions of the assistant.