Gaza Envelope Population Surges 10% Post-October 7 Attacks

New data reveals a significant population increase in Israel's Gaza Envelope communities, with the region's population growing by approximately 10% since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. According to figures released by the "Takoma" administration, the area, known as the Gaza Envelope, now hosts around 66,000 residents, an increase of about 5,000 people compared to the eve of the massacre. This growth rate is 2.5 times the national average for the same period. The surge is attributed to the return of residents displaced by the war, as well as thousands of new Israelis who have moved to the area.

More than 90% of the original residents have now returned to their homes. Sderot remains the largest population center with approximately 40,000 inhabitants. While most communities have seen a high return rate, the process is ongoing for some of the most severely affected areas. Three of the five remaining evacuated communities have begun their return process this year. Kisufim has seen over 96% of its residents return, with Holit and Kfar Aza starting their returns this summer. Be'eri expects residents to return by the end of the year, while Nir Oz is scheduled for a 2027 return.

The "Takoma" administration has set a long-term goal to double the region's population by 2033. A multi-year rehabilitation plan is budgeted at approximately 17 billion shekels, with about 11.6 billion shekels committed by the end of 2025. Over 3 billion shekels have already been invested in rebuilding communities and providing temporary housing solutions.

Aviad Friedman, head of the "Takoma" administration, stated that the goal extends beyond mere restoration. "Our mission is not only to complete what is still needed in the affected communities, but to create conditions here that will allow the region to continue to rehabilitate, grow, and attract new families and residents," he said.