The Human Cost of Israel’s War on Gaza: A Breakdown of the Tragedy
After 15 months of intense conflict, Al Jazeera provides a stark overview of the devastating toll on human life in Gaza.
It has been 467 days since Israel’s war on Gaza began—a period marked by relentless bombardments, death, destruction, and profound suffering for the Palestinian population. The conflict, which started on October 7, 2023, following attacks on southern Israel by the Palestinian group Hamas, has seen devastating consequences for Gaza’s civilians.
Fatalities Mount: 46,707 Palestinians Killed
The death toll from Israel's military campaign stands at a staggering 46,707, including approximately 18,000 children. This means one out of every 50 residents of Gaza has lost their life, and many analysts and human rights groups fear that the true number of deaths is even higher. Despite widespread international condemnation, Israel's bombardment campaign continues, causing catastrophic loss of life and wiping out entire families. With half of Gaza's population under the age of 18, the war has destroyed multiple generations of Palestinians.
Injuries on a Massive Scale: Over 100,000 Wounded
More than 110,000 people in Gaza have been injured, roughly one in every 20 individuals. According to the World Health Organization, nearly a quarter of these injuries are severe and life-altering, including severe limb damage that requires ongoing rehabilitation. The lack of medical supplies and treatment options due to Israel's blockade has left many without necessary care. UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, reports that each day, 10 children lose one or both legs in the violence, with amputations often performed with minimal anesthesia.
A Growing Humanitarian Crisis: Starvation and Displacement
Gaza’s humanitarian situation continues to worsen. The United Nations estimates that nearly 1.9 million people are displaced within Gaza, with nearly 80 percent of them living in makeshift shelters lacking adequate protection against the elements. The situation is further exacerbated by ongoing shortages of food and water. Israel's blockade has systematically prevented aid from reaching those in desperate need, and its attacks on aid workers have further complicated relief efforts.
The conditions have led to severe hunger and deprivation. In one chilling statistic, at least eight babies have died of hypothermia in inadequate shelters. UN agencies have warned that Gaza is at a "breaking point" as efforts to supply aid face overwhelming obstacles. Meanwhile, the region’s infrastructure is collapsing, with roughly half a million people living in flood-prone areas, and many shelters rendered unfit for use.
Devastating Environmental and Structural Damage
The toll of the war on Gaza's physical landscape is also immense. Over 85,000 tons of explosives have been dropped on the region, and it is expected that clearing the debris will take years. The rubble, which totals more than 42 million tons, presents not only a monumental cleanup task but also an ongoing risk of unexploded ordnance.
As Gaza continues to endure the brunt of this brutal war, the global community watches as the human cost of the conflict continues to escalate. With no clear end in sight, the people of Gaza are left to contend with unimaginable suffering and devastation.