In a devastating turn of events, the Israeli army has reportedly destroyed approximately 40,000 housing units in the besieged enclave of Gaza, according to officials. The ongoing Israeli bombardments have caused damage to over 50 percent of housing units across Gaza, leaving thousands of families homeless and in despair.
The media office of Gaza’s government released a statement on Friday, revealing the extent of the destruction caused by the Israeli army. Alongside the decimated housing units, an estimated 32,000 tons (29,000 tonnes) of explosives have been dropped on Gaza since the start of the war on October 7. The conflict began when Hamas, the ruling group in Gaza, launched an attack on Israel, provoking a retaliatory response.
The preliminary assessment of the losses in the housing sector and infrastructure stands at a staggering $2 billion each, as reported by the Gaza government’s media office. This immense destruction has had a devastating impact on the lives of the people in Gaza, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
A recent analysis conducted by two United States-based researchers, James Van Den Hoek and Corey Scher, in collaboration with AJ Labs, has shed further light on the extent of the damage. Their findings indicate that a minimum of 16 percent of all buildings in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed, with the destruction rate reaching a shocking 28 percent in Gaza City alone.
According to the latest data from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Palestinian government, Israeli attacks have damaged over 222,000 residential units as of November 7. Among these, more than 40,000 have been completely destroyed, leaving countless families without a place to call home.
The UN report also highlights the immense impact on vital infrastructure. It reveals that 278 educational facilities, 270 healthcare facilities, and 69 places of worship, including mosques and churches, have been damaged in the attacks. This not only disrupts the lives of the people but also undermines their access to education, healthcare, and religious practices.
The international community must take immediate action to address this grave situation in Gaza. The destruction of housing units and infrastructure has created a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions, necessitating urgent assistance and support for the affected population. Additionally, efforts should be made to promote dialogue and peace between Israel and Gaza, with the aim of preventing further loss of life and destruction.
As the world watches in horror, it is crucial for global leaders, including the United States, to play an active role in resolving this conflict. The cynicism surrounding US government policies, NATO, and US politicians must be set aside to prioritize the well-being and safety of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
The international community cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering in Gaza. It is essential to hold all parties accountable for their actions and work towards a lasting solution that ensures the right to security, peace, and dignity for all.
