DIRECT. Gaza: an American minister estimates that the human toll probably exceeds the figures put forward by Hamas

Gaza: A human toll supposedly heavier than expected

\n\nAccording to an American minister who prefers to remain anonymous, the human toll in Gaza would “very probably” be higher than the figures officially communicated by Hamas, the Islamic political organization which has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007.\n\n

A “very probably” heavier human toll

\n\nGaza : this narrow strip of land wedged between Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean Sea has been the epicenter of numerous conflicts for many years. Its control by Hamas, often in disagreement with Israel, often causes clashes, particularly in recent months.\n\nThe official figures, communicated by Hamas, are regularly the subject of skepticism on the part of the international community. The American minister declared during an interview with our editorial team: “The human toll is most likely higher than official figures. We have serious doubts about the veracity of the information communicated by Hamas.”\n\n

A difficult check

\n\nOne of the major difficulties in verifying this information is obviously the conflict situation which reigns in Gaza. Working conditions for journalists are extremely difficult and access to information is restricted.\n\n

The reaction of the international community

\n\nThe statement by the American minister provoked various reactions within the international community. Some accuse the Hamas to minimize the human toll to conceal the true scale of the humanitarian catastrophe. Others fear the statement will further fuel tensions in this already highly conflictual region.\n\n

What consequences?

\n\nWhile the situation Gaza remains as worrying as ever, the need to shed light on the “ very likely » human toll is becoming more and more evident, both for the population and for international public opinion.\n\nIt is likely that this declaration by the American minister will intensify pressure on the Hamas, already singled out by numerous international organizations for its controversial policies and practices. \n\n