How three years of Israel’s genocidal war have changed Gaza

What Happened

Three years after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 triggered Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, the territory’s population of about two million faces collapsed housing, water, electricity, education, health care, and economic activity. Gaza’s Ministry of Health reports 74,245 Palestinians killed in the war and 1,462 killed since the ceasefire announced in October 2025 took effect, while Israeli strikes and military activity have continued. UN data cited in the article show that in September, 94 percent of Gaza’s population needed urgent shelter or basic household assistance and 65 percent of households lived in tents or makeshift shelters; in early August, 91 percent of assessed households faced moderate-to-high water insecurity. The UN Conference on Trade and Development estimated that 92 percent of Gaza’s economic establishments were damaged or destroyed since October 2023, unemployment reached 78 percent, and GDP per capita fell to $212 in 2025, about 17 percent of its 2022 level. UNICEF reported nearly 98 percent of schools damaged or destroyed, leaving about 700,000 children aged 4 to 17 without regular in-person schooling as of April 2026. The World Health Organization said all 36 of Gaza’s hospitals have been damaged and only 19 are functioning, none at full capacity.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The three-year assessment shows that the October 2025 ceasefire has not restored basic living conditions or halted Israeli military activity. The near-total destruction of economic establishments, schools, and hospitals—combined with 94 percent of the population needing shelter assistance—indicates a prolonged humanitarian crisis that will shape reconstruction, governance, and any future stability or mediation efforts involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

Watch For

Monitor whether the October 2025 ceasefire holds or further Israeli strikes and casualties are reported by Gaza’s Ministry of Health. Watch for updated UN, WHO, UNICEF, and UNCTAD reports on humanitarian access, reconstruction funding, and school or hospital functionality. Track any changes at Israeli-controlled crossings affecting goods and aid, as well as any new ceasefire or hostage-release negotiations involving Qatar, Egypt, or the United States.