Israel Confirm 1,152 Israeli Security Forces Killed, Over $51 Billion Spent Since Hamas Conflict Began

The Israeli Ministry of Defense has confirmed that 1,152 members of the country’s security forces have been killed since Hamas launched a large-scale attack on October 7, 2023. The casualties include personnel from the Israel Defense Forces, police, Shin Bet intelligence, special operations units, and readiness and reserve forces. Nearly half of those killed were under the age of 21, serving mandatory military service, while 141 were over 40. Most were reservists, career officers, or soldiers serving beyond their initial enlistment period. Among the fallen, 1,086 were men and 66 were women.

The Ministry’s Families, Commemoration, and Heritage Division has been actively providing support to the relatives of the deceased. The conflict has added more than 6,500 bereaved family members to the system, including nearly 2,000 parents, 350 widows, 885 children, and over 3,400 siblings. A program worth 60 million Israeli shekels (approximately $18.1 million) has expanded these services, offering housing, counseling, financial aid, and tailored assistance for widows, orphans, and other relatives. Officials describe this as a moral responsibility to support the families of those who have fallen.

The conflict that began on October 7 has continued to affect Israel, Gaza, and neighboring regions. Israeli military operations have extended across Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, resulting in casualties on both sides. Gaza health authorities report more than 66,000 deaths, predominantly among civilians, raising concerns from international organizations about potential violations of international law.

Economically, the war has imposed a significant burden on Israel. Preliminary estimates suggest that the conflict could cost the country more than 200 billion shekels, equivalent to roughly $51 billion, accounting for military operations, equipment, and other associated expenses. This spending represents a substantial portion of Israel’s GDP and highlights the broader financial impact of the ongoing conflict.

The human and economic consequences of the war remain profound. The loss of over a thousand security personnel and the disruption to civilian life underscore the high stakes of the hostilities. At the same time, the financial implications reflect the sustained pressure on Israel’s resources as the situation continues to unfold.