Gaza strip: The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) reported that Israeli aggression has resulted in significant damage to 190,115 buildings in the Gaza Strip. The findings were disclosed in a report titled “Housing in Gaza: Between Rubble and Displacement: Destroyed Houses and Displaced Families Searching for Shelter.”
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, the report was released in conjunction with World Habitat Day and Arab Housing Day. These observances, recognized by the United Nations and endorsed by the Council of Arab Ministers of Housing and Reconstruction, respectively, offer a platform to address housing conditions and the challenges facing cities, especially amid conflicts.
The report detailed the extent of destruction in Gaza between October 7, 2023, and July 8, 2025, marking a dramatic increase in building damages due to the ongoing Israeli military operations. It noted that 102,067 buildings have been completely demolished, while moderately damaged buildings number 41,895. Overall, around 330,500 housing units have been affected, highlighting the severe impact on living conditions.
The situation is similarly dire in the West Bank, including the Jerusalem Governorate, where increased forced displacement and land confiscation have been reported since October 2023. The report states that around 1,200 Palestinians in Masafer Yatta are facing displacement due to rejected building permits. Additionally, OCHA figures reveal that at least 6,463 Palestinians have been displaced due to demolitions, with thousands more affected by military operations and settler violence.
In Gaza City, the ongoing aggression has led to the forced displacement of over 2 million residents, with many living in crowded tent camps or damaged buildings. Satellite imagery from UN and Planet Labs PBC indicates a significant reduction in tent numbers, despite the Israeli military’s evacuation orders.
The report further reveals that 5% of households in the West Bank experience overcrowding, with refugee camps displaying the highest percentages. Moreover, the Gaza Strip’s water and sanitation infrastructure has been severely compromised, with over 85% of facilities rendered non-functional, drastically reducing water supply to emergency levels.
The number of licensed housing units in Palestine also saw a decline in 2024, reflecting the broader challenges of providing adequate housing amid ongoing conflict and displacement. World Habitat Day serves as a reminder of the critical need for sustainable urban solutions and the protection of Palestinians’ rights to safe and dignified living conditions.
