DayofPal—The Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights has warned that Gaza’s population decline since October 2023 suggests the death toll could surpass 200,000, far higher than previously reported.
Stuart Casey Maslen, head of the academy, described the situation in Gaza as “dramatic,” with civilians continuing to face severe humanitarian crises despite a ceasefire.
Maslen highlighted that, while at least 70,000 deaths have been documented among Palestinians and Israelis, the actual figure is likely much higher due to bodies still trapped under rubble.
The academy’s report, War Watch, examined Gaza alongside 23 other war zones over the past 18 months, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid, including food, water, shelter, and medical care.
He stressed that injured civilians need evacuation to safe locations for proper treatment, noting that “people continue to die in Gaza.”
Maslen also outlined the extraordinary scale of destruction and the long-term reconstruction required, estimating that billions of dollars will be needed for Gaza to approach pre-October 2023 living conditions.
Regarding allegations of genocide, Maslen said the war in Gaza does not legally start on October 7, 2023, but underlying offenses such as mass death, injury, and deprivation have been documented.
He emphasized the importance of international justice and expressed concern over delays in enforcing ICC arrest warrants.
The report concludes that the past two years in Gaza will be remembered with deep sadness and highlights the need for accountability for all killings and destruction.
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