By : Lloyd Mahachi
Gaza’s population has taken a significant hit, dropping by 6% – approximately 160,000 people – in 2024. This decline is largely attributed to Israel’s war against Hamas, which has had a devastating impact on the Palestinian enclave’s demographics.
The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) reported that around 100,000 Palestinians have left Gaza since the beginning of the war on October 7, 2023. Additionally, at least 45,553 people were killed in Israeli attacks in the strip, according to official figures from the Palestinian Ministry of Health.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with 60,000 pregnant women facing inadequate healthcare.
The lack of adequate healthcare is a pressing concern, and it’s essential to address this issue.
Furthermore, 96% of the population is struggling with high levels of food insecurity. This makes it challenging for people to gain access to basic necessities, and it’s essential to address this issue. The current population of Gaza stands at 2.1 million, with over a million children under the age of 18.
These children account for 47% of the population, making Gaza one of the youngest populations in the world. The PCBS reported that the population decline is a pressing concern, with significant decreases in mortality and birth rates due to the current conditions.
In contrast, Israel’s population is still growing, albeit at a slower rate. The country’s Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) reported a 1.1% growth in 2024, compared to 1.6% in 2023. However, this growth is largely offset by the high number of Israelis emigrating from the country.
In 2024, some 82,700 residents left Israel, compared to 55,000 the year before. This trend is attributed to the ongoing conflict and political turmoil in the region. Israel’s population has reached an estimated 10.027 million, surpassing the 10-million mark for the first time.
However, it’s essential to note that this count includes foreign nationals residing in the country. The ongoing conflict has taken a toll on Israel, with mass protests against the government’s plans to overhaul the judicial system and the war against Hamas. The country is also facing conflicts with Iran, the Houthis in Yemen, and militants in Syria and Iraq.
These groups claim to be attacking Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. The decline in Gaza’s population is a pressing concern, with the PCBS warning of significant decreases in mortality and birth rates due to the current conditions. The Gaza Strip has been under a blockade for decades, leading to a hollowed-out economy and a reliance on international aid.
The situation is further complicated by the internal political split among Palestinians and the restrictions on movement and access to essential services. As the conflict continues, it’s crucial to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and work towards a lasting resolution. The international community must come together to provide aid and support to those affected and to promote a peaceful and sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi