IN PHOTOS: Protesters in Jerusalem demand Netanyahu’s resignation on day 500 of hostage crisis
Protesters in Jerusalem marked 500 days since the October 7 attack by Hamas, demanding action from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Demonstrators held an effigy of Netanyahu in a prison uniform, alongside banners accusing him of crimes, as calls for his resignation grew louder. (PICS/PTI)
Updated on : 18 February,2025 05:13 PM IST | Compiled by : Anisha Shrivastava
The war, triggered by Hamas’ assault in 2023, has led to over 48,200 Palestinian deaths and nearly 850 Israeli soldier fatalities. A fragile ceasefire has held for almost a month but is set to expire in early March, with uncertainty over further negotiations.
Approximately 73 hostages remain in Gaza, including three taken before October 7, with 36 believed to have died in captivity. Over 10,000 rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza since the conflict began, intensifying regional instability.
The war has displaced around 90 per cent of Gaza’s population, with over 245,000 housing units damaged or destroyed. More than 111,600 Palestinians have been injured, while Gaza’s healthcare system has suffered extensive damage, with over 84 per cent of its facilities affected.
Israel has seen over 75,500 people displaced due to cross-border attacks from Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Since the ceasefire, 586,000 Palestinians have crossed into northern Gaza, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Over 92 per cent of Gaza’s primary roads have been damaged or destroyed, severely hampering relief efforts. The scale of devastation and continued instability has raised urgent questions about the future of the ceasefire and prospects for lasting peace.
