Full Breakdown
Unexploded Ordnance Poses Ongoing Threat in Post-Ceasefire Gaza
10/25/2025, 9:19:53 PM
The Human Cost of Unexploded Munitions
Since the ceasefire on October 10, 2023, many families have returned to their homes in Gaza, only to confront the grim reality of unexploded ordnance left behind by Israeli bombardments. Ayman Qadourah, a resident of Khan Younis, has set up a temporary shelter over an unexploded Israeli armoured vehicle, locally referred to as an “explosive robot.” This device, along with others, poses a significant hazard to returning families. According to the United Nations, over 328 individuals have been killed or injured by unexploded ordnance since the conflict escalated, although this figure is believed to be an undercount.
Scale of the Problem
Reports indicate that approximately 20,000 unexploded munitions, including bombs and artillery shells, remain buried across Gaza, weighing an estimated 71,000 tons. The Gaza Rights Group (GRC) has described the territory as one of the most dangerous places on earth due to these remnants. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has reported that more than 61 million tons of debris now cover the region, complicating recovery efforts. Mahmoud Bassal, a spokesman for Gaza’s civil defense, noted that many unexploded devices are located in residential areas, making cleanup operations perilous.
Challenges in Clearance Efforts
Experts estimate that clearing all unexploded ordnance from Gaza could take between 20 to 30 years. Nick Orr, an explosive ordnance disposal expert, stated that while surface clearance might be achievable within a generation, the deeper remnants will remain a threat for much longer. Currently, aid groups face significant hurdles in obtaining permission from Israeli authorities to import the necessary equipment for safe removal and destruction of these explosives.
Humanitarian Response and Restrictions
Humanitarian agencies have increased aid deliveries since the ceasefire, distributing food, hygiene supplies, and tents. However, the flow of aid remains heavily restricted by Israel, which limits the types of goods entering Gaza. Bahaa Zaqout, director of external relations at the Palestinian NGO PARC, highlighted that while some commercial goods have entered, they do not meet the nutritional needs of the population, with essential items like seeds and olives still barred from entry.
Criticism of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire, while providing temporary relief, has not resolved the underlying issues. Many families, like Qadourah's, are forced to live in hazardous conditions due to the presence of unexploded devices. The lack of Palestinian representation in ceasefire negotiations has also raised concerns among residents about the long-term implications of the agreement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Unexploded devices like that are a serious hazard,” — Ayman Qadourah, Resident of Khan Younis
- “This has made Gaza one of the most dangerous places on earth,” — Gaza Rights Group
- “If you’re looking at a full clearance, it’s never happening, it’s subterranean.” — Nick Orr, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Expert
- “The situation in the Gaza Strip remains catastrophic, even two weeks after the ceasefire began,” — Bahaa Zaqout, Director of External Relations at PARC
Conclusion
The return of families to Gaza post-ceasefire has been marred by the persistent threat of unexploded ordnance. With thousands of dangerous devices buried beneath the rubble, the humanitarian crisis continues to evolve, necessitating urgent international attention and action to ensure the safety of returning residents.
