Since withdrawing from a ceasefire with Hamas in March, Israel has demolished thousands of buildings across Gaza, with entire towns and neighborhoods reduced to rubble in recent weeks.
Satellite imagery reveals widespread destruction in areas now reportedly under Israeli military control. Much of this devastation stems from planned demolitions — not only of already damaged structures but also of buildings that appeared largely intact, reports BBC.
Verified videos show massive explosions and clouds of debris as Israeli forces carry out controlled demolitions on apartment blocks, schools, and civilian infrastructure.
Legal experts say the actions may constitute war crimes under the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit the destruction of civilian property by an occupying force unless required by urgent military necessity.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that all operations are conducted in line with international law. They claim Hamas embeds military assets within civilian areas, and that demolitions are carried out only when deemed a military necessity.