Geospatial information for sustainable food systems

Overview of the damage to agricultural land and infrastructure due to the conflict in the Gaza Strip as of 31 December 2023

Year published: 30/01/2024

The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel erupted on October 7, 2023, leading to Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. Within two months, over 85 percent of Gaza's population was displaced, severely impacting agriculture. The FAO conducted two assessments of agricultural damage during the conflict. As of December 31, 2023, significant damage was evident, with home barns (206), broiler farms (172), and sheep farms (149) being the most damaged. A total of 488 agricultural wells were damaged, with North Gaza (184) and Gaza (178) being the most affected governorates. Approximately 20.5 percent (261.8 ha) of greenhouses suffered significant damage, with Gaza and North Gaza being the worst affected. About 27.5 percent (4,319.4 ha) of all cropland in Gaza was damaged, with Gaza governorate accounting for the most damage (1,482.1 ha). Future recommendations include integrating field and remote sensing data and ensuring transparent access to satellite imagery for improved response programs. The Gaza population faces extreme food consumption gaps and severe nutritional vulnerability, necessitating frequent updates and close monitoring for rehabilitation of the agriculture sector.