Gaza War Death Toll Hits 40,786; Strike and Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

The health ministry in Gaza reported on Monday that the death toll from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants has reached 40,786. This figure includes 48 new fatalities recorded in the past 24 hours. Additionally, 94,224 individuals have been wounded since the war began following Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7.

In Israel, a nationwide strike organized by the Histadrut trade union began at 6:00 am local time to pressure the government into negotiating a deal to release hostages. While the strike impacted the commercial hub of Tel Aviv and the northern city of Haifa, some sectors remained operational. The Haifa port experienced disruptions, and Ben Gurion International Airport saw delays and cancellations in flights. Public transportation services were partially affected by the strike.

In the United States, President Joe Biden criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to secure a deal for the release of hostages taken by Hamas. Speaking at the White House, Biden indicated that Netanyahu’s actions were insufficient and mentioned that U.S. negotiators were close to finalizing a proposal. This meeting follows the recent deaths of six hostages, including an American citizen, in Gaza. Biden, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, will meet with the U.S. negotiating team to discuss strategies for securing the release of the remaining hostages. The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar have been working towards a hostage-prisoner exchange and ceasefire to end the conflict.