**Title: Palestinian Death Toll Exceeds 66,000 Amid Ongoing Conflict**

CAIRO — The death toll of Palestinians in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has surpassed 66,000, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry reported on Sunday that the total number of fatalities has reached 66,005, with an additional 168,162 individuals injured since the conflict escalated following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. Among the deceased, 79 were reported to have died in the last 24 hours alone.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. This meeting comes amid increasing international pressure on Israel to cease its military operations in Gaza. Netanyahu has faced criticism from key Western allies, many of whom have recognized Palestinian statehood despite Israeli objections. The European Union is also contemplating sanctions against Israel, and there are rising calls for cultural and sports boycotts.

During a recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, Netanyahu asserted that Israel "must finish the job" against Hamas, even as dozens of delegates walked out in protest. The Israeli military has continued its offensive in Gaza City, which has resulted in widespread destruction and displacement, with approximately 90% of the population now displaced.

Trump has expressed support for Israel but has shown signs of impatience, particularly following Israel's recent bombing in Qatar, which was perceived as an unsuccessful attempt to target Hamas leadership. In light of this, Trump is expected to present a new ceasefire proposal during his meeting with Netanyahu.

The proposed 21-point plan includes the release of all hostages within 48 hours and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. This proposal was discussed with Arab leaders during the U.N. General Assembly, although it remains subject to change. A Hamas official indicated that the group is willing to consider any proposals positively and responsibly, but has yet to receive an official offer from mediators in Egypt and Qatar.

In a related diplomatic effort, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee is scheduled to visit Cairo to engage with Egyptian officials regarding the ceasefire and the deteriorating relations between Egypt and Israel. This visit is expected to occur early next month.

The ongoing conflict has led to a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, with reports indicating that the city is experiencing famine. Local hospitals have reported continuous explosions, particularly in the Nuseirat refugee camp, where at least 10 people were killed in recent strikes. The Israeli military stated it targeted 140 Hamas military sites in the past 24 hours, including infrastructure and observation equipment.

The Health Ministry, which operates under the Hamas administration, does not distinguish between civilian and militant casualties in its reports. However, it has indicated that women and children constitute about half of the reported deaths. The figures provided by the ministry are regarded as reliable estimates by the United Nations and various independent experts.