The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a staggering loss of life and extensive destruction. Since the hostilities began on October 7, 2023, reports indicate that over 67,000 Palestinians have died, with nearly a third of the casualties being individuals under the age of 18, according to Gaza health authorities. This grim data does not differentiate between civilians and combatants, although Israel has claimed that at least 20,000 of those killed were fighters.
The toll on Israeli lives has also been significant. As of September 29, 2025, at least 1,665 Israelis and foreign nationals have lost their lives in the conflict, with 1,200 fatalities occurring during the initial attack on October 7. The Israeli military reports that 466 soldiers have been killed in combat, with 2,951 others injured since the ground operations commenced on October 27, 2023. Furthermore, Hamas has taken 251 individuals hostage, and currently, 48 hostages are believed to remain in Gaza, with 20 of them thought to be alive.
Extent of Destruction and Displacement
The physical destruction in Gaza is unprecedented. According to an analysis by the United Nations Satellite Centre, approximately 193,000 buildings have been destroyed or damaged, including over 213 hospitals and 1,029 schools. The World Health Organization reports that only 14 of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are still operational, leaving many overwhelmed, particularly in the southern regions.
Displacement has become a dire issue, with the United Nations stating that only 18 percent of the Gaza Strip is free from displacement orders or militarized zones. Many Palestinians have experienced multiple displacements. Following an intensified military campaign in Gaza City that began in mid-August, the UN recorded over 417,000 displacements as families were forced to flee from the north to the south of the enclave.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. A global hunger monitor reported in August that famine conditions have taken hold in Gaza City, with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification system indicating that 514,000 people—about a quarter of the population—are experiencing famine. Tragically, at least 177 individuals, including 36 children, have died from starvation and malnutrition since the onset of famine.
Efforts to deliver aid have been hampered. Following the lifting of an 11-week blockade on May 21, aid agencies have expressed that the amount of assistance reaching Gaza is insufficient to meet the needs. While Israel states there is no quantitative limit on food aid, it accuses Hamas of diverting supplies, a claim the militant group denies. Since May 27, at least 2,340 people have been killed while seeking food or aid, with many deaths occurring near militarized supply sites and along aid convoy routes, according to data from OCHA.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with ongoing calls for a comprehensive humanitarian response to address the overwhelming needs of the affected populations. The international community watches closely as the conflict continues to unfold, leaving a devastating impact on countless lives.
