GAZA, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- Direct losses in vital sectors of the Gaza Strip have exceeded 70 billion U.S. dollars after two years of Israeli military operations, the Hamas-run media office in Gaza said on Friday.

Ismail al-Thawabta, director of the media office, told a press conference that the war has resulted in extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, as well as to the health, education, housing, and public service sectors.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, about 77,000 people were killed or went missing, including more than 67,000 confirmed deaths in hospitals, and around 170,000 people were injured, al-Thawabta said, noting that more than 6,700 Palestinians, including medical and media workers, are still held in Israeli prisons.

He added that at least 38 hospitals and dozens of health centers and ambulances were destroyed, leading to what he described as a "total collapse" of the health sector.

In the education sector, around 670 schools and 165 universities and educational institutions were destroyed, while more than 13,500 students, 830 teachers, and 190 academics were killed, according to the official.

In the housing sector, al-Thawabta said around 300,000 housing units were completely destroyed and 200,000 others severely or partially damaged, leading to the forced displacement of about 2 million people, many of whom are now living in tents lacking basic necessities.

The blockade imposed on Gaza also led to what he described as a "severe starvation crisis," as the crossings into Gaza were closed for more than 600 days, preventing the entry of hundreds of thousands of trucks carrying aid and goods. He said about 460 people died due to hunger and malnutrition, while 2,600 others died while trying to obtain humanitarian assistance.

In a separate statement, the media office called on residents to cooperate with local authorities and humanitarian organizations during the "recovery and reconstruction" phase, which would focuses on securing essential needs, including food, medicine, shelter, and public services.

Meanwhile, Mahmoud Basal, spokesman for the Civil Defense in Gaza, told Xinhua that rescue teams have recovered at least 81 bodies from under the rubble since the ceasefire agreement came into effect before noon on Friday.

Hamas and Israel on Thursday reached the ceasefire agreement after three days of intensive negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye and the United States.

The first phase of the peace plan includes the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza City, the north, Rafah, and Khan Younis, the opening of five crossings for the entry of humanitarian aid, and the release of hostages and prisoners.■