At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani announced that the second phase of the agreement between Israel and the Palestinian movement Hamas will focus on hostage releases, a ceasefire, and the extensive reconstruction of the devastated Gaza Strip.

Related:
Gaza: Death Toll Rises to 47,000 Amid Ceasefire Process

Al Thani highlighted that the agreement’s first phase addresses urgent needs, such as restoring hospitals and basic services. The second phase, he explained, will involve a broader reconstruction effort. He emphasized the vast scale of destruction in Gaza, stating that “all of Gaza was destroyed,” and noted that media images fail to fully convey the grim reality on the ground.

The ceasefire, which began on January 19 at 11:30 a.m. (local time), is set to proceed in stages. In the initial phase, Hamas has agreed to release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

However, Al Thani warned of significant challenges to reconstruction, particularly the risk of renewed violence that could disrupt humanitarian efforts.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. According to recent reports, over 45,000 people have been killed by Israeli forces since the military assault began in October 2023, with alarming numbers of wounded and missing individuals.

Medical facilities have been heavily damaged or destroyed, leaving thousands without access to essential care. The lack of electricity and fuel has exacerbated the crisis, and nearly two million people are displaced. Many face malnutrition and chronic health issues, underscoring the urgent need for international support.

Al Thani called on the global community to back reconstruction efforts, ensuring investments are both effective and sustainable. He stressed that rebuilding Gaza requires addressing the root causes of the conflict to prevent future cycles of violence.

A Devastating Toll on Gaza: Statistics of the Israeli Offensive
The Gaza Media Office released a detailed report on December 29, 2024, documenting the human and material losses sustained over 450 days of conflict.

Human Losses

• 45,514: Total fatalities since October 7, 2023.
• 108,189: People injured during the conflict.
• 17,818: Children killed.
• 12,287: Women killed.
• 11,200: Missing or trapped under rubble.
• 70% of the victims are women and children.

Impact on Families and Communities

• 1,413: Families wiped out entirely.
• 5,455: Family members erased from the Civil Registry.
• 3,467: Families left with only one survivor.

Healthcare and Humanitarian Crisis

The destruction of medical infrastructure has been catastrophic:

• 1,068: Medical staff killed.
• 276: Hospitals and healthcare facilities destroyed.
• 12,500: Cancer patients at risk due to lack of treatment.
• 350,000: People with chronic illnesses face critical medicine shortages.

Displacement and homelessness compound the crisis:

• 2 million: People displaced within Gaza.
• 216: Refugee shelters and centers destroyed.

Material Destruction

• 437,600: Homes partially or fully destroyed.
• 488: Schools and universities damaged or destroyed.
• 88,000 tons: Explosives dropped on Gaza.

This harrowing report underscores the immense suffering in Gaza and the urgent need for a peaceful and sustainable solution. The international community faces a critical challenge to address this crisis, ensuring the dignity and human rights of all affected are upheld while working toward a durable resolution.

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