"Gaza Death Toll Surges to 7,700, Russia Condemns Israel's Actions as Defiance of International Law"

The death toll in the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict has tragically surged to 7,700, according to a recent statement from Gaza's Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas. Since the inception of the violence, around 19,743 Palestinians have reportedly suffered injuries. The conflict started with a surprise attack initiated by Hamas militants on Israeli military targets and towns back on October 7, with the Israeli death toll currently standing at 1,400.

Russians have been vocal about their discontentment and concern over the ramifications of Israel's actions. The country's Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, has accused Israel of contravening international law through their assault on Gaza. The risk, he explained, is the creation of a disaster demarking generations.

In an interview with Belta, the state news agency in Belarus, Lavrov emphasized the enormity and gravity of the situation. While Russia condemns any form of terrorism, they firmly believe that responding to such threats by violating international humanitarian law is unacceptable. He further pointed out the impossibility of destroying Hamas without causing irreparable harm to Gaza and its population.

"If Gaza is obliterated and the displacement of two million residents is instigated, as is being advocated by several politicians, the catastrophe would linger for many decades, possibly centuries," Lavrov cautioned. He urged for a cessation of the confrontation and the initiation of humanitarian programmes to rescue the besieged population.

Amid disapproval for Israel's attack, Russia has extended an invitation to a Hamas delegation to Moscow, firmly backing an immediate ceasefire and a two-state solution. This has understandably stirred a rift between Russia and Israel. Nevertheless, Russia maintains full communication lines with Israel, urging for peace and the avoidance of a 'scorched earth' strategy.