**Unemployment Soars in Gaza Strip Amidst Ongoing Conflict**
In a stark revelation by the United Nations’ International Labour Organization (ILO), unemployment rates in the Gaza Strip have surged to an alarming 79.1% following the outbreak of war with Israel last October. This catastrophic economic downturn has propelled the average unemployment rate across Palestinian territories to over 50%, underscoring the devastating impact of the conflict on the local workforce.
The ILO’s fourth assessment since the war commenced paints a grim picture of the economic landscape in the region. The West Bank, though faring slightly better, has not been spared, with joblessness nearing 32%. These figures, however, only account for those actively seeking employment, omitting a significant number of Palestinians who have lost hope in finding work amidst the chaos.
Ruba Jaradat, ILO Regional Director for Arab States, emphasized the dire circumstances, stating, “The situation is much worse.” The conflict, which escalated following Hamas’ incursion into southern Israel on October 7, has led to a staggering loss of life and a significant humanitarian crisis. Israeli forces’ ground and air operations in response have resulted in over 36,500 deaths in the Gaza Strip alone, exacerbating the plight of a population already burdened by poverty.
Before the war, approximately half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents were living below the poverty line. The current unemployment crisis threatens to deepen food insecurity and health issues among the population. “Imagine with this very high level of unemployment, people will not be able to secure food for themselves and for their families,” Jaradat remarked, highlighting the cascading effects of the economic collapse on basic human needs.
The Palestinian economy has been severely impacted, with the real gross domestic product (GDP) contracting by nearly 33% since the onset of hostilities. The Gaza Strip has been hit hardest, experiencing an estimated GDP contraction of 83.5%, while the West Bank has seen a 22.7% reduction. This economic downturn has plunged many families into severe poverty, further destabilizing the region.
As the international community watches, the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict and a comprehensive plan to rebuild the Palestinian economy becomes increasingly apparent. The current situation not only represents a humanitarian crisis but also a significant setback to regional stability and peace prospects.
(Reporting by Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)