Newly updated Google Maps satellite imagery reveals the widespread destruction across the Gaza Strip, nearly three years into the ongoing conflict. The images depict a landscape where entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, making it difficult to distinguish one area from another, with farmland scorched and historical sites damaged or erased.

This extensive damage underscores the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the densely populated territory. The conflict has led to a massive displacement of the Palestinian population and a severe reduction in living conditions, with essential infrastructure severely impacted.

A recent assessment by the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) indicated a 9 percent increase in destroyed structures in Gaza since a ceasefire took effect approximately a year ago. Overall, United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) figures suggest that about 82 percent of Gaza's structures, estimated at 200,000 buildings, have sustained damage, with approximately two-thirds of those completely destroyed.

The implications of this level of destruction are profound, affecting not only the physical landscape but also the long-term habitability of Gaza and the well-being of its residents. Rebuilding efforts, if and when they commence, will face monumental challenges.

Al Jazeera analyzed satellite images, comparing pre-war views with recent imagery from Google Maps, spanning from Rafah in the south to North Gaza. The imagery from Rafah was captured this year, while parts of northern Gaza were documented in 2024 and 2025. These comparisons highlight the dramatic transformation of the territory.

In Tal as-Sultan, a neighborhood in western Rafah, the once-populated area has been almost entirely leveled, with satellite views showing predominantly sand where homes once stood. This area became a refuge for many displaced Palestinians before military operations intensified.

Al-Mawasi, a coastal strip in Rafah and Khan Younis, designated as a "humanitarian zone" early in the conflict, has also been significantly impacted. Despite warnings from then-US President Joe Biden regarding operations in Rafah, Israel proceeded, leading to hundreds of thousands of displaced people being pushed into Al-Mawasi, which has since been subjected to repeated bombings.

Khan Younis governorate has recorded the highest number of damaged structures, with UNOSAT's October 2025 assessment noting over 51,885 structures affected. The area is now densely packed with tents and families seeking shelter amidst the ongoing destruction.