ISRAELI AFFAIRS

Fri 20 Mar 2026 3:38 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israel's Losses in 19 Days: Thousands Injured and Economic Cost Exceeds $6 Billion

The Israeli Ministry of Health announced an increase in the number of injured Israelis to 4,099 since the outbreak of military confrontations on February 28. Medical sources clarified that the past twenty-four hours alone witnessed the registration of 150 new injuries transferred to hospitals for necessary treatment.

According to the health statement issued this Friday morning, hospitals are still receiving 80 cases, including one in a very critical condition and eight cases described as serious. The data also indicated 11 moderate cases and 60 minor injuries, reflecting the significant pressure on the Israeli medical system.

Regarding the details of the recent injuries, sources stated that among the 150 injured who entered hospitals since Thursday morning, there are two cases in serious health condition and two moderate cases. Minor injuries predominated among the rest, with 136 cases, in addition to 10 cases treated for shock and panic resulting from the shelling.

For its part, Hebrew press reports revealed the killing of 21 Israelis since the start of the operation, which the army named 'Lion's Roar'. Sources confirmed that the numbers of dead and injured are likely to increase given the continued intense missile barrages targeting Israeli depth and vital sites.

On the ground, media sources admitted the failure of air defense systems to intercept 26 cluster missiles, whose warheads managed to hit 150 different locations. This technical failure led to the expansion of destruction in the targeted areas and an increase in confusion among field forces.

In an initial assessment of the extent of material damage, economic reports indicated that about nine thousand residential buildings and facilities were damaged to varying degrees due to the concentrated Iranian shelling. The damage also affected more than three thousand cars and vehicles, placing the Israeli government before a huge compensation bill for settlers and those affected.

As for the financial cost of military operations, specialized economic sources estimated that the war cost the Israeli treasury about $6.4 billion during the first 19 days alone. This cost is among the highest historically, considering the short duration and the intensity of military use of advanced weapons.

Reports clarified that daily spending on military operations exceeds one billion shekels, equivalent to $322 million, including jet fuel and smart munitions. Dozens of fighter jets participate in these operations, carrying out daily raids, in addition to refueling aircraft provided by the United States to support the war effort.

Estimates indicate that the budget allocated for managing this war is about $12.5 billion, an amount that could quickly run out if the confrontation continues at the same pace. These figures are limited to direct military expenditures, without accounting for the paralysis that affected productive sectors and the decline in GDP.

Amidst these escalating losses, the occupation army imposes strict military censorship on media outlets to prevent the circulation of precise details about targeted sites or the true extent of casualties. Security officials warn citizens against publishing videos that might reveal vulnerabilities in air defenses or boost the morale of the other side.

These are direct defense costs only, without accounting for civilian expenses or the loss in GDP caused by the war.

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Israel's Losses in 19 Days: Thousands Injured and Economic Cost Exceeds $6 Billion

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