As the conflict between Israel and Hamas marks its nearly one-year anniversary from October 2023, Gaza is still reeling from the impacts. As reported on Sunday, local health authorities indicate that the death toll has now exceeded 41,595 Palestinians, with injuries reaching 96,251.

The situation is dire, with approximately 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure destroyed and 68% of roads rendered unusable. The conflict has forced many into displacement, and the basic infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, has been devastated. Those who remain are trapped in dire conditions, facing shortages of food and clean water, while diseases continue to spread. A ceasefire remains a distant hope.

Initially home to 2.4 million residents, Gaza has now suffered the loss of over 40,000 lives, with 90% of its population displaced due to the relentless conflict.

Residents are deprived of basic necessities such as food, medical supplies, and clean drinking water, constantly facing evacuation orders from Israeli authorities that force them into a cycle of flight.

Currently, Gaza is under strict Israeli blockade, with food supplies delivered only through humanitarian efforts, which are woefully insufficient. A report by the United Nations in July noted that at least 495,000 individuals in Gaza are facing extreme food shortages, with many suffering from malnutrition.

The region’s water supply system has been critically damaged, leaving the majority without access to clean drinking water, relying on water trucks while the sewage disposal systems are also in disrepair. UNICEF has reported that many residents are living in unhygienic conditions, leading to the spread of diseases like diarrhea and skin infections.

Local authorities estimate that the war has resulted in approximately 170,000 buildings being damaged, which constitutes about 60% of all structures in Gaza. Out of the 510 schools in the area, 85% (approximately 477 schools) have been damaged, putting hundreds of thousands of children out of school.

Additionally, Gaza’s power plant, water treatment facilities, and police stations are non-operational, leading to a significant collapse of the healthcare system. Currently, only 16 of the 36 hospitals in Gaza are still functioning, and they are facing severe shortages of medical supplies.