Gaza is situated in the Gaza District of Palestine, on the Mediterranean coast, serving as a major urban center in the region. According to British Mandate statistics from 1945, Gaza had a population of approximately 34,250 residents, with only 80 Jewish inhabitants. By 1997, this figure had grown dramatically to 353,113, and by 2007 it reached 427,944 people.
As of 1945, Arab landowners controlled 151,023 dunums compared to 6,537 dunums held by Jewish owners. The majority of land was planted with cereal (115,185 dunums) and designated as arable. Citrus groves covering 4,120 dunums represented another significant agricultural focus.
Gaza experienced major conflicts during World War I, when British forces attacked the city in March and April 1917, causing substantial destruction. The Grand Mosque was damaged during these attacks. The city later underwent reconstruction, serving as an important administrative and commercial center under British Mandate governance.
Historically, Gaza was known for traditional crafts including carpet weaving and pottery production. The city maintained an active harbor and functioned as a significant trading port. Educational institutions, including the al-Azhar University and Islamic University, became important cultural landmarks.
