According to a new study published in The Lancet, the death toll in Gaza during the first 16 months of conflict has exceeded 75,000, which is at least 25,000 higher than earlier reports. The research period spans from October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, to January 5, 2025. The findings indicate that 42,200 of the deceased were women, children, and the elderly, accounting for 56 percent of all violent deaths in Gaza. Researchers estimate that about 3-4 percent of Gaza's population has been killed violently.

The study was based on surveys conducted with 2,000 families in Gaza, who reported deaths among their members. This data was collected by experienced Palestinian pollsters, indicating a grassroots approach to gathering this sensitive information. Among the findings, the study concludes that 8,200 deaths were attributed to indirect causes, including malnutrition and untreated illnesses, showcasing the far-reaching consequences of the conflict beyond direct violence.

The exact death toll has been a point of contention, as varying reports have circulated throughout the media and from different organizations. The significant discrepancy in numbers highlights the need for reliable data in war zones and raises questions about how casualties are reported and understood within the context of ongoing conflicts. This study aims to provide a more accurate understanding of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, amidst the conflicting narratives surrounding the war.