"Growth of 2.5 times the national average": 3 years after 10/7 - population data of the Gaza envelope revealed
Three years after the October 7 massacre, the Tekuma Directorate reveals population data: approximately 66,000 residents live in the Tekuma region, a growth of about 10% compared to the eve of the attack. The growth rate is 2.5 times the national average, and the return rate to communities stands at over 90%. The last four communities have not yet fully returned, with timelines ranging from the end of 2026 to the end of 2027.
Three years after the October 7 massacre, the Tekuma Directorate has released updated population data for the Tekuma region, the Gaza envelope area. According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics, approximately 66,000 residents currently live in the region – a growth of about 10% compared to the eve of the attack, at a rate 2.5 times the national average. The return rate to all communities stands at over 90%. Among the last four communities that have not yet returned to their homes, Holit began the process at the end of August, Kfar Aza is expected to start at the end of September, Be'eri is expected to start at the end of December and complete by July 2027, and in Nir Oz, rehabilitation work continues towards a return at the end of 2027. The head of the Tekuma Directorate, Aviad Friedman, said the mission is to create conditions for long-term rehabilitation and growth, while doubling the population by 2033. The directorate operates with a budget of approximately 2.860 billion shekels for projects until the end of 2026, including education, health, economy, and employment. The article presents official data and quotes from the head of the directorate, while emphasizing a positive growth trend in the severely affected area.