Gaza War Devastates Two-Thirds of Buildings, UN Reports

Since the onset of the Gaza war in October 2023, the situation in the Gaza Strip has reached alarming levels. According to a recent report from the United Nations, two-thirds of the buildings in this densely populated area have been either damaged or completely destroyed. This assessment, conducted by the UN Satellite Centre (UNOSAT), highlights the severe impact of the ongoing conflict on the region's infrastructure.

Using high-resolution satellite imagery collected on September 3 and 6, UNOSAT revealed that a staggering 66 percent of the total structures in Gaza have sustained damage. This translates to approximately 163,778 buildings affected by the conflict. The previous assessment, which relied on images from early July, indicated that 63 percent of structures had been damaged, showing a clear and concerning trend of deterioration.

The breakdown of the damage is particularly striking. The report states that there are now 52,564 structures that have been completely destroyed, while 18,913 buildings are classified as severely damaged. Additionally, 35,591 structures are possibly damaged, and 56,710 have been moderately affected. Gaza City has borne the brunt of this destruction, with 36,611 structures reported as destroyed.

Moreover, the agricultural sector is also suffering. The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization noted that around 68 percent of the permanent crop fields in Gaza have shown a significant decline in health and density as of September. This decline poses a serious threat to food security in the region, compounding the humanitarian crisis.

The conflict escalated dramatically following Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,205 individuals, primarily civilians. In retaliation, Israel's military offensive has led to the deaths of at least 41,615 people in Gaza, with most casualties being civilians as well. The UN has deemed these figures as reliable, underscoring the tragic human cost of the ongoing violence.

UNOSAT, part of the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), plays a crucial role in providing insights into the extent of conflict-related damage. Their satellite imagery analysis is vital for the humanitarian community, as it helps shape emergency relief efforts. Nikhil Seth, UNITAR’s executive director, emphasized the dedication of UNOSAT’s team in delivering precise and timely information regarding the impact of the conflict on Gaza's buildings and infrastructure.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for the international community to remain informed and engaged. The destruction of homes and infrastructure not only affects the immediate safety and well-being of the people in Gaza but also has long-term implications for recovery and rebuilding efforts. Understanding the scale of the damage is the first step towards providing the necessary support and aid to those affected by this devastating conflict.