Country Profile: Gaza Strip
The Gaza Strip is a coastal enclave located in the Middle East, bordered by Egypt and Israel. It has been governed by the Islamic Resistance Movement (HAMAS) since 2007, amidst ongoing conflicts and humanitarian challenges that have impacted its population of over 2 million. The economy is largely dependent on agriculture and services but faces significant hardships such as high unemployment and limited resources. The governance structure remains complex, characterized by political divisions between HAMAS and Fatah, and ongoing tensions with Israel.
Geography
The Gaza Strip is situated along the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing an area of approximately 360 sq km, slightly larger than Washington, D.C. It features a flat, rolling terrain with arable land forming a significant part of its landscape. The region's mild winters and hot, dry summers contribute to its temperate climate. The Gaza Strip has a coastline of 40 km and shares land borders of 72 km with Egypt and Israel.
- Elevation: Highest point is 105 m (Abu 'Awdah).
- Natural Resources: Includes natural gas and arable land.
- Land Use: 64.9% is agricultural land, with 7% being arable land.
People and Society
As of 2024, the population of the Gaza Strip is estimated at 2,141,643, primarily composed of Palestinian Arabs. The age distribution reveals a young demographic, with a median age of just 19.5 years. The majority of the population practices Islam, with around 98-99% being Muslim. Urbanization is prominent, with 77.6% of the population residing in urban areas, particularly Gaza City.
- Population Growth Rate: 2.02% (2024).
- Youth Dependency Ratio: 66.6%.
- Life Expectancy: 75.5 years at birth (2024).
Economy
The economy of the Gaza Strip is heavily impacted by conflicts and restrictions, leading to a projected real GDP of $20.339 billion in 2024. The economy is primarily supported by services and agriculture, but it faces challenges such as an unemployment rate of 24.5% (2022) and a high inflation rate, which is estimated at 53.7% for 2024.
- GDP Per Capita: $3,800 (2024).
- Household Consumption: 95.5% of GDP (2024).
- Exports: Approximately $2.885 billion (2024).
Government
The Gaza Strip does not have a formal recognized government structure; instead, it is governed by HAMAS. The region's political landscape has been shaped by historical conflicts, with ongoing tensions between different factions, particularly HAMAS and Fatah.
- Local Name: Qita' Ghazzah.
- Historical Context: Inhabited since at least the 15th century B.C., it has a complex history marked by various rulers.
Military and Security
The security landscape in Gaza is dominated by HAMAS, which maintains its own military wing known as the 'Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades. This force is estimated to consist of 20,000-30,000 fighters and operates with significant autonomy. The area has been a focal point of military tensions, especially in light of ongoing conflicts with Israel.
- Military Equipment: Includes light weapons, rockets, and UAVs.
- Support: Receives military backing from Iran.
Energy
The Gaza Strip has achieved 100% electrification as of 2022, with an installed electricity generating capacity of 352,000 kW. The energy landscape is primarily dependent on fossil fuels, though solar energy also plays a role.
- Electricity Consumption: 6.956 billion kWh (2023).
- Refined Petroleum Consumption: 29,000 barrels per day (2023).
Environment
Environmental issues in Gaza include soil degradation, water pollution, and depletion of freshwater resources. Approximately 64.9% of the land is used for agriculture, which faces challenges from climate conditions and pollution.
- Urban Population: 77.6% of total population (2023).
- Total Water Withdrawal: 251 million cubic meters (2022).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,141,643 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 360 sq km | Slightly larger than Washington, D.C. |
| GDP (PPP) | $20.339 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 24.5% | 2022 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | 75.5 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 26.8 births/1,000 population | 2024 estimate |
| Total Energy Consumption Per Capita | 14.991 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Youth Dependency Ratio | 66.6% | 2024 estimate |
| Population Growth Rate | 2.02% | 2024 estimate |
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