Israeli military operations have led to the near-total destruction of Gaza's livestock population, a representative from the local Ministry of Agriculture told The National.
“The war hasn't just killed animals—it has erased an entire way of life,” the official stated.
According to the ministry, animals perished both from Israeli airstrikes and as residents resorted to slaughtering livestock amid severe food shortages. The conflict has destroyed 95% of cattle, 57% of sheep, and 99% of poultry. Entire agricultural areas—including Khan Younis and northern territories now under Israeli control—have been devastated. The ministry warned that rebuilding the livestock sector will take decades.
One local farmer described how losing his herd caused not only financial ruin but also a loss of life's purpose. The report notes that Gaza's population continues to face worsening food scarcity.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has previously stated the organization is actively working to increase humanitarian aid deliveries to the coastal enclave.
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Based on materials from TASS