A report released Thursday by Palestinian authorities reveals that approximately 5,000 tourist facilities have been destroyed by Zionist forces in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023.
This joint report, published by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics and the Ministry of Tourism, coincides with World Tourism Day, which is observed annually on September 27.
According to the report, estimates suggest that “the Zionist aggression against the Gaza Strip has led to the total or partial destruction of the majority of tourist facilities.”
The findings indicate that “4,992 establishments engaged in tourism activities have been destroyed, including 3,450 restaurants and beverage service establishments, which represent 69.1% of the tourist facilities in the Gaza Strip, as well as 921 venues for artistic activities, comprising 18.4% of the total.”
Additionally, the report states that “the aggression has resulted in the destruction of 182 craft and souvenir manufacturing and sales outlets, along with 173 hospitality-related facilities.”
It further emphasizes that “15,265 workers have lost their jobs in the tourism sector.”
Regarding the state of tourism in the occupied West Bank, the report notes that “the number of hotel guests during the first half of 2024 experienced a significant decline of 84.2% compared to the same period last year.”
According to the latest statistics released Wednesday by the Gaza media office, since October 7, the Zionist forces has destroyed 206 archaeological sites and 36 sports facilities, in addition to over 150,000 homes, with initial losses estimated at $33 billion.
The Zionist agression against Gaza has resulted in 41,495 fatalities and 96,006 injuries as of September 25, predominantly impacting women and children. More than 10,000 individuals are reported missing amid widespread destruction and a devastating famine.
In tandem with its military operations in the Gaza Strip, the Zionist forces has intensified raids in the West Bank, while settlers have escalated their attacks, leading to the deaths of 718 Palestinians and approximately 5,750 injuries, according to Palestinian authorities.
