The Agricultural Sector within the PNGO network has issued a fact sheet highlighting the severe damage inflicted on the fishing sector in the Gaza Strip as a result of the ongoing Israeli aggression since October 2023. According to the fact sheet, the fishing sector, which is a primary source of livelihood for thousands of families in Gaza, has suffered significant destruction due to Israeli military attacks. These attacks have led to the deaths of 150 fishermen and the damage and destruction of 87% of fishing boats, including 96 motorized boats and 900 non-motorized boats. Additionally, the infrastructure has been heavily damaged, with Gaza Port and other fishing facilities destroyed, resulting in indirect losses estimated at approximately $7 million per month, and depriving the population of their fish resources.

"With the sudden onset of the war on the Gaza Strip, most fishermen were unable to protect their boats and equipment, leaving them on the shores and docks. Amid the aggression, the occupying forces destroyed most of these boats, as well as Gaza Port and the small docks, resulting in their complete destruction," said Zakaria Baker, Coordinator of the Fishermen's Committees at the Agricultural Work Committee.

Fishermen are facing increasing challenges due to imposed fishing restrictions and the lack of necessary equipment and fuel. Thousands of fishermen have lost their source of livelihood and have become some of the most impoverished groups in the community. The fact sheet calls for increased international and local support for the fishing sector through the provision of emergency aid and the rehabilitation of infrastructure, as well as the enhancement of humanitarian relief programs to ensure that essential food supplies reach the population.

Read the Full Factsheet:        Fishing Sector in Gaza under War Conditions