Former Israeli Chief Confirms 200,000+ Gaza Casualties During Conflict

Herzi Halevi, the former chief of staff of the Israeli Defense Forces, confirmed that over 200,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured in the Gaza conflict, a figure close to that reported by Gaza’s health ministry, which Israeli officials often dismiss. Halevi revealed that military operations were never restricted by legal advice during the war, emphasizing that Israel "took the gloves off from the first minute," suggesting a more aggressive approach should have been taken earlier. The conflict, now nearing its second anniversary, has seen extensive use of heavy ordnance and AI in targeting, resulting in significant civilian casualties. Despite Halevi's claims of adherence to international law, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes. The Gaza health ministry's figures state approximately 64,700 deaths and 164,000 injuries, though experts estimate the actual toll, including those buried under rubble, could be much higher. Halevi's admission challenges official Israeli narratives and underscores the devastating humanitarian impact of the war on Gaza's population.