Overview
- UNMAS, speaking in Geneva on Friday, said Gaza is heavily contaminated with unexploded munitions and has identified more than 1,000 explosive items so far.
- The agency estimated a density of roughly one device every 600 metres, with rubble and tent camps hiding hazards and many areas still not surveyed.
- UN figures cite more than 1,000 deaths from explosive remnants since the war began, and Save the Children says 2024 averaged 475 children a month with long-term disabilities, including amputations.
- Officials warned that hidden explosives now put aid convoys at risk and have stalled early rebuilding across the territory.
- An assessment put the best-case clearance bill at about $541 million, and UNMAS said the danger will likely persist for decades without broad access, equipment, and funding.