Recent satellite images have captured the devastating impact of over 1,000 days of war in Gaza. The images, taken in early 2026, reveal a landscape transformed by conflict, with once-thriving neighborhoods now lying in ruins. The war has left Gaza with extensive damage, rendering many areas uninhabitable. The images provide a rare glimpse from space into the destruction that has been difficult for reporters to document on the ground.
The satellite images show that in southern Gaza, the area of Tel al-Sultan, which was once a densely populated neighborhood, has been largely destroyed. Only around 10 buildings remain standing. In the north, the towns of Beit Hanoun and Jabalia, known for their fertile agricultural land, have been transformed into vast areas of devastation. The images show long, winding roads cut through fields and residential areas, resembling open wounds in the landscape.
According to the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT), 83% of Gaza City's buildings have been damaged or destroyed since October 2023. The city's landscape has changed dramatically, with many buildings reduced to rubble. The images show that in areas like the Al-Rimal neighborhood, which was once a upscale coastal area, makeshift displacement camps have been set up on the ruins of destroyed buildings. Gaza's coastline, including the Gaza port area, has also been transformed into a sprawling refugee camp.
The destruction has not spared Gaza's infrastructure and institutions. The Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest healthcare complex in the sector, has been subjected to two consecutive military sieges, resulting in hundreds of casualties and extensive damage. The hospital's destruction is evident in the satellite images. Additionally, the Israeli military demolished the 14-story Al-Mashtae tower, the tallest building in Gaza, in September 2025.
The United Nations reports that the conflict has resulted in the displacement of 1.9 million people, with over 371,000 homes destroyed or damaged, representing more than 60% of Gaza's housing stock. The conflict has also severely impacted Gaza's economy, with a contraction of 84%. The destruction has set back Gaza's development by 77 years, according to the UN.
The satellite images provide a stark visual representation of the devastating impact of the conflict on Gaza. The images show a landscape scarred by conflict, with destruction on a massive scale. The international community has been provided with a rare glimpse into the extent of the destruction, which has been difficult to document due to access restrictions.
The ongoing conflict has had a profound impact on Gaza's residents, with many facing significant challenges in accessing basic necessities like healthcare, education, and housing. The destruction of Gaza's infrastructure and institutions has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with many residents relying on aid and assistance to survive.
Key points
- 83% of Gaza City's buildings have been damaged or destroyed since October 2023.
- The conflict has resulted in the displacement of 1.9 million people.
- Gaza's economy has contracted by 84%, setting back development by 77 years.
