Three Years Into Gaza War, Death Toll Surpasses 74,200, Reports Say

Three years after the war between Israel and Hamas began in Gaza, the reported death toll has surpassed 74,200 people, a figure equivalent to about 3.4% of the territory's estimated prewar population, according to Anadolu Agency.

The figures, drawn from health and humanitarian sources in Gaza, underscore the scale of civilian and combatant casualties recorded since the conflict began following Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and Israel's subsequent military campaign in the territory.

Anadolu Agency's report frames the toll as part of what it describes as a genocide, a characterization also used by some Palestinian officials and international bodies, though one that Israel disputes, saying its campaign is directed at Hamas and not at Palestinian civilians as such.

Verifying casualty figures in Gaza independently has remained difficult throughout the war because of restricted access for foreign journalists and monitors, though international organizations have generally treated figures from Gaza's health ministry as broadly consistent with other available evidence.

The anniversary arrives as diplomatic efforts, including those led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, continue in pursuit of a durable ceasefire and further releases of hostages held in Gaza.