The Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza: Facts and Figures
Gaza is facing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, with over 45,000 people killed, at least 111,000 injured, and nearly 1.9 million displaced multiple times due to relentless bombardments. Women and children account for 70% of the fatalities. Over 70% of Gaza’s infrastructure, including health services and water and sanitation systems, has been destroyed. Eighty percent of the Gaza Strip is now a high-risk area, forcing people to flee in search of basic necessities and safety.
Palestinian fatalities:
186,000+: Estimated total number of Palestinian deaths directly or indirectly attributable to Israel’s actions as of July 2024, according to an analysis in The Lancet. This includes deaths from reproductive, communicable, and non-communicable diseases.
16,750+: Number of Palestinian children killed by the Israeli military, including approximately 1,300 infants and toddlers under the age of two.
4,000+: Estimated number of people missing under rubble and presumed dead.
6,297+: Number of Palestinian women killed by the Israeli military.
2,955+: Number of elderly Palestinians killed.
900+: Number of Palestinian medical workers killed, including at least 165 doctors (more than 50 highly specialized) and 260 nurses.
Over 87% of schools have been severely damaged or destroyed, including all 12 of Gaza’s universities.
None of the 200 U.N.-run schools are operational; many serve as shelters for displaced people.
More than 600,000 students lack access to formal education or safe learning spaces due to the destruction and ongoing attacks.
Continuous bombardments, displacement, and loss have caused severe psychological trauma. Children are particularly affected, with many experiencing anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Mental health services are scarce due to the destruction of facilities and loss of professionals
The blockade and destruction of businesses have devastated Gaza’s economy. Unemployment exceeds 50%, and poverty levels have skyrocketed. Families struggle to afford basic necessities, with many relying entirely on humanitarian aid.
The destruction of infrastructure has polluted air, soil, and water. Bombing has left toxic debris, posing long-term health risks. Gaza’s water supply is contaminated, and sewage systems are non-functional, creating a severe environmental crisis.