Gaza Envelope Population Grows Significantly Three Years After October 7 Attacks

Three years after the October 7 Hamas attacks, the Gaza Envelope region in southern Israel has seen a significant demographic and recovery boom. Current data from the Central Bureau of Statistics indicates approximately 66,000 residents now live in the area, an increase of about 5,000 people since before the attacks. This represents a nearly 10% growth rate, 2.5 times the national average, aligning with a strategic goal to double the region's population by 2033. Sderot remains the largest city with around 40,000 inhabitants.

Over 90% of residents have returned to their homes in the Gaza Envelope communities, joined by thousands of new residents. Significant progress has been made in community returns during 2026. Kibbutz Kissufim has seen over 96% of its residents return, and the return process began in Kibbutz Holit and Kibbutz Kfar Aza in late August. Other communities are slated for return later, with Kibbutz Be'eri residents expected to begin their return in late December 2026, and Nir Oz aiming for late August 2027 after reconstruction.

Aviad Friedman, head of the "Tekuma" administration responsible for the region's recovery, stated that the focus remains on supporting residents and creating conditions for rebuilding lives. He noted the significant milestone of communities returning home, population growth, and the transition from recovery to long-term development, aiming to attract new families and residents.

The recovery effort is backed by a multi-year strategic plan totaling approximately NIS 17 billion. By the end of 2025, NIS 11.6 billion had been committed, with another NIS 2.8 billion planned for 2026. Direct investment in recovery and return processes amounts to NIS 3.178 billion, including physical reconstruction and temporary housing. Substantial funds have also been allocated to security upgrades, education, healthcare facilities, agriculture, welfare services, economic development, and infrastructure.

Specific budgets include NIS 473 million for Be'eri's reconstruction, NIS 211 million for Kfar Aza, NIS 232 million for Nir Oz, NIS 57 million for Holit, and NIS 85 million for Kissufim. An additional NIS 3 billion is expected to be invested by year-end in public buildings, urban renewal in Sderot, student dormitories, and transportation and water infrastructure.