It may take up to 10 years to remove unexploded bombs and land mines left in Gaza following 15 months of conflict, according to the UN humanitarian agency OCHA.

A recent report from the Global Protection Cluster, comprising various UN and humanitarian organisations, estimates that clearing such explosives would require approximately $500 million due to the extensive rubble estimated at 42 million tonnes containing hazardous materials like asbestos and human remains.

The escalation of violence in the region began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the abduction of around 250 hostages.

In response, Israel conducted a military operation in Gaza that has reportedly killed over 47,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry.

The military campaign has led to widespread accusations of genocide and war crimes, which Israel has denied, and has displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza, contributing to a severe hunger crisis.

A ceasefire that took effect recently has facilitated the release of some hostages and Palestinian prisoners, but rights groups continue to voice concerns over the escalating humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict.

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