Agencies :
A recent study published in the Lancet estimates that the total death toll from Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza could exceed 186,000 people.
This figure includes indirect fatalities resulting from the extensive destruction of infrastructure and essential services.
Since Israel initiated its military offensive on October 7, Gaza’s Ministry of Health reports more than 38,000 Palestinian deaths.
However, the study suggests the true toll is much higher, as the official numbers do not account for those buried under rubble or deaths indirectly caused by the conflict’s impact on health facilities, food distribution, and other critical infrastructure.
The study talks about how these conflicts extend beyond immediate violence, causing long-term health implications. Even if the war ends now, the aftermath could result in numerous indirect deaths due to diseases and lack of essential services.
The destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure, combined with severe shortages of food, water, and shelter, exacerbates the situation. As well as funding cuts to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) further worsen the crisis.
The Lancet study estimates indirect deaths could range from three to 15 times the number of direct deaths. Using a conservative estimate of four indirect deaths per direct death, the study suggests up to 186,000 deaths could be attributable to the conflict. This number is nearly 8% of Gaza’s pre-war population of 2.3 million.
The study also acknowledges the challenges in accurately documenting the death toll due to the extensive destruction. It notes that Israeli intelligence services, the United Nations (UN), and the World Health Organization (WHO) concur that allegations of data fabrication by Palestinian authorities are unlikely.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) required steps to prevent destruction and safeguard evidence related to allegations against Israel under the Genocide Convention. It’s crucial to keep accurate records for historical accountability and legal reasons.