Analysis reveals that over 50% of Gaza's structures have been either harmed or completely obliterated.

According to new analysis seen by the BBC, over half of the buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed since Israel launched retaliation for the Hamas attacks in October. Detailed before-and-after aerial imagery shows that the bombardment of southern Gaza has intensified in recent weeks, with Khan Younis being heavily affected. Israel has repeatedly advised Gazans to move south for their safety. The analysis suggests that between 50% and 61% of Gaza's buildings, ranging from 144,000 to 175,000, have been damaged or destroyed. This includes residential areas, bustling shopping streets, universities, and farmlands. As a result, more than 80% of Gaza's population, or 1.7 million people, are homeless or displaced, with nearly half of them concentrated in the far southern end of the strip. The analysis also reveals significant destruction of farmland. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has claimed that it is targeting both Hamas fighters and "terror infrastructure" in response to questions about the scale of damage. However, questions have been raised about the destruction of buildings seemingly under IDF control. The analysis shows that Gaza has suffered extensive damage surpassing other war zones. Aid agencies report that half of Gaza's population is now facing starvation due to the destruction of farmland and food production. Many farmers have lost their crops, and the rehabilitation of farmlands is expected to be difficult due to the presence of unexploded weapons and contaminated land. Finally, the analysis highlights the proliferation of tents and temporary structures to accommodate the displaced population in the south, with nearly every available patch of land turned into a refuge.