He Said 9,500 People Remain Missing Under Rubble, and Israel Has Killed More Than 1,200 People Since the Ceasefire Decision

Gaza Government Media Office Director Ismail al-Thawabta told CNN Turk that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening, with over 72,000 people killed and 175,000 wounded since the conflict began. He said 9,500 people remain missing under rubble, and Israel has killed more than 1,200 people since the ceasefire decision. Al-Thawabta said border crossings remain completely closed, blocking food and medicine, while garbage piles are spreading infectious diseases.

More than 1.1 million people have contracted contagious illnesses, with chickenpox and scabies common among children, and over 500,000 people sick due to water shortages. He said Israel occupies over 60% of Gaza and has destroyed 90% of the Strip, making recovery nearly impossible without lifting the blockade. Al-Thawabta called on the international community, the UN Security Council, and mediators Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar to pressure Israel to open crossings and end the siege, noting 22,000 urgent cases await medical supplies.