As the Israel-Hamas war reaches a grim milestone of 500 days, staggering statistics reveal the devastating human and infrastructural toll of the conflict. Here's what the numbers show about the world's most enduring modern crisis.
Human Cost
Over 48,200 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed since October 7, 2023, according to Gaza Health Ministry data. While the figures do not differentiate between combatants and civilians, the ministry reports that more than half of the casualties were women and children. Another 111,600 have been wounded.
Israel has lost 846 soldiers during the same period. Meanwhile, Hamas has fired over 10,000 rockets at Israel, displacing 75,500 Israelis at the peak of attacks.
Gaza's Collapse
Approximately 90% of Gaza's population – 2.3 million people – have been displaced, with 586,000 residents crossing into northern Gaza since the recent ceasefire began. Over 245,000 housing units have been damaged or destroyed, leaving families sheltering in makeshift tents and damaged buildings.
Critical Infrastructure
The war has crippled Gaza's basic services: 92% of primary roads are damaged or destroyed, severely limiting aid delivery. More than 84% of health facilities are non-operational, compounding the humanitarian crisis as chronic illnesses go untreated and injuries overwhelm remaining hospitals.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
