A recent study released on February 18, 2026, by the medical journal Lancet reveals that the death toll in Gaza has been vastly underestimated, with over 75,000 casualties reported in the first 16 months of the ongoing conflict. This number is at least 25,000 greater than the figures announced by local authorities at that time, highlighting the critical need for accurate reporting in conflict zones. The study emphasizes a significant discrepancy between official counts and the actual human cost of the war, raising concerns over the reliability of local statistics in crises.

Furthermore, the research indicates that the Palestinian Ministry of Health's reports regarding the demographics of the casualties—specifically the number of women, children, and elderly—are largely accurate. A shocking 42,200 individuals from these vulnerable groups lost their lives between October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, and January 5, 2025. This demographic make-up shows that women and children accounted for 56% of violent deaths in Gaza, underscoring the devastating impact of the conflict on non-combatants.

The findings of this Lancet study suggest a grave humanitarian crisis, with long-lasting implications for the affected population. As the conflict continues, the urgent need for international attention and assistance becomes more apparent, not only to address immediate humanitarian needs but also to foster long-term peace and stability in the region. Markedly, data shows that between 3% to 4% of deaths may be attributed to indirect causes, further complicating the narrative surrounding wartime casualties and necessitating a nuanced understanding of the war’s consequences.