Humanitarian snapshot: casualties in the context of demonstrations and hostilities in Gaza | 30 March - 18 October 2018

Overview
Since 30 March 2018, the Gaza Strip has witnessed a significant increase in Palestinian casualties in the context of mass demonstrations and other activities along Israel’s perimeter fence with Gaza, taking place as part of the «Great March of Return», as well as during hostilities. The large number of casualties among unarmed Palestinian demonstrators, including a high percentage of demonstrators hit by live ammunition, has raised concerns about excessive use of force by Israeli troops. Exposure of children to violence along with media reports of the militarization of children are also of concern. Despite significant assistance provided, Gaza's health sector is struggling to cope with the mass influx of casualties, due to years of blockade, the internal divide and a chronic energy crisis, which have left essential services in Gaza barely able to function.

Key humanitarian needs

• Rapid deployment of quality-assured emergency medical teams to conduct complex lifesaving surgery.
• Procurement of essential drugs, disposables and medical equipment.
• Enhancement of post-operative and rehabilitative care through multi-disciplinary rehabilitation teams.
• Legal aid to address restrictions impeding medical patients from receiving treatment outside Gaza.
• Mental health and psychological support for children and families impacted by violence.
• Procurement of emergency fuel to run back-up generators at 54 critical health facilities.
• Monitoring and documentation of the differentiated impact of the situation on men, women, boys and girls. 

Source of Palestinian casualty data: OCHA, Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza

Source of Israeli casualty data: Israeli media.

Disclaimer: Data and analysis provided in this snapshot is based on preliminary information available. Further assessments are pending.