Holocaust: 15 out of every 16 people killed by Israel in Gaza since March are civilians

Of every 16 Palestinians killed in the Gaza Strip since Israel broke a ceasefire there on 18 March, almost 15 have been civilians, according to data collected by an independent violence-tracking organisation.

The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) tracked reports of deaths in Hamas and allied armed groups from the Israeli military, local and international media, statements from Hamas and other sources over six months.

The organisation found that, according to Israel's claims to have killed over 2,100 'operatives' since 18 March, its data indicated the figure is actually close to 1,100 and includes Hamas political figures and fighters from other groups.

ACLED also says that Israel's continued operations "now appear driven more by domestic political and ideological goals than by any realistic plan to free [captives] or secure lasting stability", adding that Israel's weaponisation of aid has worsened civilian suffering without forcing the Palestinian group to surrender.

The report also said that Israel has launched over 3,500 airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, killing over 9,500 people, with the vast majority civilians. ACLED records that at least 40 Hamas commanders and key operatives have been killed during this period, including Mohammed Sinwar.

The organisation also mentions how Israel's military offensive has targeted Gaza's infrastructure, including having destroyed over 230 government buildings and causing "extensive damage" to essential infrastructure, including electricity and water networks, as well as the health and education systems.

ACLED data also revealed that over 1,300 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid from late May to 12 September, either at or around distribution centres led by the US and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), the majority of deaths being by the Israeli army.

The organisation also noted the GHF's "poorly organised" deliveries, with boxes being placed in open areas, gates only open for a brief time, and thousands of hungry, desperate Palestinians rushing forward. 

While ACLED data has noted a "sharp increase" in aid being looted, there was no evidence of Hamas systematically looting aid. Israel has often accused the Palestinian group of diverting humanitarian aid, without providing proof.

The reports add that if Hamas were to do so, it would damage its reputation among the people of Gaza.

The report comes amid a horrific Israeli invasion of Gaza City, which has involved the systematic destruction of its residential areas. [MORE]