Satellite imagery analyzed by the United Nations Satellite Centre reveals extensive damage in the Gaza Strip, with 30% of its buildings destroyed or harmed during Israel’s offensive. Initiated in response to Hamas attacks on southern Israel in October, the assault has resulted in over 27,000 Palestinian casualties, according to Gaza health authorities. Widespread air strikes, shelling, and demolitions have devastated entire urban areas, including vital civilian infrastructure.

The UN Satellite Centre, UNOSAT, reported a staggering impact on the territory, identifying 69,147 structures affected, equivalent to 30% of the Gaza Strip’s total. Of these, 22,131 structures are confirmed as destroyed, with an additional 14,066 severely damaged and 32,950 moderately damaged. Satellite imagery from January 6-7 was compared with six other datasets, including pre-offensive images.

Gaza City and Khan Younis witnessed the most significant increase in damage, with 10,280 and 11,894 newly affected structures, respectively, compared to a previous analysis from November 26. UNOSAT’s assessment estimates 93,800 housing units damaged in the Gaza Strip.

The offensive, marked by extensive destruction, has sparked global concern. The data highlights the human toll, with about 1,200 casualties in the Hamas-initiated attack on Israel that triggered the Israeli offensive. The extensive structural damage raises significant challenges for reconstruction and recovery in the densely populated Palestinian enclave.