Gaza is facing one of the largest reconstruction challenges in modern history following Israel’s devastating war on the territory, with both local and international assessments confirming unprecedented levels of destruction.
Authorities in Gaza estimate that more than 70 million tonnes of debris now blanket large parts of the enclave, while UN figures put the total closer to 55 million tonnes.
Buried beneath the rubble are more than 20,000 unexploded munitions, posing an ongoing threat to civilians, rescue workers and aid teams.
Reconstruction efforts remain paralysed under the continuing Israeli blockade, which restricts the entry of heavy machinery, cement and other essential materials.
UN experts warn that clearing the debris alone could take up to 15 years, with initial cost estimates for rebuilding exceeding $55 billion.
According to UN assessments, around two-thirds of Gaza’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, and more than 70% of homes are now uninhabitable.
Basic services such as electricity, water and sanitation have almost completely collapsed, forcing hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to live in makeshift tents or on the ruins of their former homes.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest news and updates from around the Muslim world!
Humanitarian organisations have warned that any delay in clearing the rubble will deepen the crisis, citing severe environmental and health risks from toxic materials, and unstable explosives embedded in the debris.
Gaza now stands in urgent need of coordinated international action to prevent a prolonged humanitarian catastrophe, as an entire population struggles to rebuild what remains of civilian life beneath the weight of apocalyptic devastation.
Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have killed more than 68,000 Palestinians and wounded nearly 170,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Over 40,000 of the wounded have suffered life-altering injuries, and thousands more are believed to remain buried beneath the rubble.
