Geospatial information for sustainable food systems

A rapid geospatial damage assessment of the 2023 conflict in the Gaza Strip on agricultural land and infrastructure

Year published: 06/02/2024

The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel erupted on 7 October 2023, leading to Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. Within two months, over 85 percent of Gaza's population was displaced, severely impacting agriculture. FAO conducted two assessments of agricultural damage during the conflict. As of 31 December 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 programmes. The Gaza population faces extreme food consumption gaps and severe nutritional vulnerability, necessitating frequent updates and close monitoring for rehabilitation of the agriculture sector.