Gaza's 2.1 Million Residents Suffer Devastating Consequences of 2-Year War

Breaking News: Two Years of War Devastate Palestinian Lives in Gaza Jerusalem - The Israel-Hamas war has ravaged the lives of 2.1 million Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip, with devastating numbers revealing the scale of destruction and human suffering. According to official statistics, out of every 10 people in Gaza, one has been killed or injured in an Israeli strike, while nine are displaced. At least three have gone without food for days. The war's impact on children is particularly dire, with four out of every 100 losing either one or both parents. Buildings and homes have also suffered catastrophic damage: eight out of every 10 buildings pre-war are now damaged or flattened, and nine out of every 10 homes are wrecked. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing some 1,200 people. The Israeli military responded with airstrikes that have continued intermittently over the past two years, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The latest escalation occurred in August 2024, when an Israeli bombardment killed dozens of civilians. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has sparked international concern, with aid organizations warning of a catastrophic situation. The United Nations estimates that some 70% of Gazans rely on food assistance to survive. The European Union has condemned the violence and called for a ceasefire. In the midst of this chaos, Palestinian families are struggling to cope with the loss of loved ones and livelihoods. Faten Mreish's son was killed in an Israeli strike in August 2024, leaving her family without a breadwinner. "We're living in a nightmare," she said. "I don't know how we'll survive." As the conflict enters its third year, the international community is urging both sides to find a peaceful resolution. The United States has called for a ceasefire, while Egypt and other regional powers are working to broker a truce. The people of Gaza remain trapped in this cycle of violence, with no end in sight. As one resident put it, "We're not just fighting for our homes; we're fighting for our lives." *This story is developing. Information compiled from Npr reporting.*