The study said the blockade has severely hurt the area's economy, particularly in construction and the agriculture, and caused the loss of 120,000 jobs.

Palestinians have also been prevented from using Erez crossing, which links Gaza to the West Bank.

'The denial of Palestinians' right to leave Gaza, or to move freely to the West Bank, particularly when their lives, physical integrity, or basic freedoms are under threat, is another key component of the current human dignity crisis,' the study said.

'The blockade has 'locked in' 1.5 million people in what is one of the most densely populated areas on earth,' it said.

It said human sufferings in Gaza have been compounded by the recurring cycles of violence from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and human rights violations.

The UN relief agency in the Middle East known as UNRWA Monday was seeking $181 million to replenish its funds to support refugees in Gaza. The appeal was launched on the eve of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan to cover food needs, job creation and cash assistance to the poorest Palestinians.