In a shocking revelation, a study published in the esteemed journal Lancet has shed light on the true extent of the death toll resulting from Israel's war on Gaza. The study suggests that the cumulative effects of the conflict could mean that the number of people who have lost their lives exceeds a staggering 186,000.

According to Gaza's Ministry of Health, over 38,000 Palestinians have been reported killed since Israel's military offensive began on October 7. However, the study highlights that this figure does not account for numerous indirect deaths caused by the destruction of essential infrastructure such as health facilities, food distribution systems, and other public structures.

The study goes on to highlight that conflicts have far-reaching health implications beyond direct violence, including the spread of diseases. Even if the Gaza war were to promptly end, it is expected to continue causing countless indirect deaths in the months and even years to come. The destruction of infrastructure, scarcity of essential resources such as food, water, and shelter, alongside funding cuts to organizations like the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, contribute to the grim reality.

Examining previous conflicts, the study reveals that the number of indirect deaths can be three to 15 times higher than the direct death toll. By applying a conservative estimate of four indirect deaths per one direct death, the study concludes that the number of deaths attributable to the Gaza war could reach a staggering 186,000 or possibly even more. This alarming figure represents nearly 8 percent of Gaza's pre-war population of 2.3 million.

Critically, the Lancet study dismisses allegations of data fabrication against the Palestinian authorities in Gaza regarding the death toll. It asserts that Israeli intelligence services, the UN, and the World Health Organization all consider such claims "implausible." However, due to the severe destruction of infrastructure in Gaza, it has become immensely challenging to maintain an accurate count that reflects the true death toll.

The study emphasizes that documenting the actual scale of the tragedy is crucial for historical accountability and acknowledging the complete cost of the war. Importantly, it also highlights that the International Court of Justice, in interim rulings made earlier this year in a genocide case brought against Israel, has stressed the necessity for preserving evidence related to allegations of criminal acts under the Genocide Convention.

As the world grapples with the devastating aftermath of the Gaza war, it is evident that the true extent of the loss of life is far greater than official figures initially suggested. Urgent measures are needed to address the immense humanitarian crisis that afflicts Gaza and to prevent further suffering. The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.