Since the ceasefire with Hamas began on October 10, Israeli forces have demolished over 1,500 buildings in Gaza areas under their control, according to satellite images analysed by BBC Verify. The latest images, from November 8, show entire neighbourhoods flattened in less than a month, apparently through planned demolitions rather than ongoing combat.
The actual number of destroyed buildings may be higher, as some areas lacked clear satellite coverage. While the ceasefire brokered by the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey sought to halt military actions, experts disagree on whether Israel’s demolitions violate the agreement. The IDF insists its actions comply with the ceasefire terms, focusing on dismantling “terror infrastructure,” including tunnels.
President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan, guiding the ceasefire, demands suspension of “all military operations.” Yet the President has repeatedly stated that “the war is over”, despite the ongoing destruction.
BBC Verify used radar image comparisons to identify destroyed buildings beyond the Yellow Line, the boundary Israel agreed to withdraw to. In eastern Khan Younis near Abasan al-Kabira, many intact-looking homes with gardens and orchards were razed.
Similar destruction is visible near al-Bayuk, east of Rafah, with satellite and aerial footage showing dust rising from ruined neighbourhoods. Gaza City’s Shejaiya district and areas near the Indonesian hospital by Jabalia camp have also suffered damage.
Eitan Shamir, former National Security adviser in Israel, said ceasefire terms do not apply inside the Yellow Line, where Israel controls the territory. Verified videos of demolitions and excavators align with this area.
The IDF argues its actions respond to threats and aim to dismantle terror infrastructure. Defence Minister Israel Katz called this a “clear” security policy. Trump’s plan calls for destroying terror-related facilities under independent supervision, which critics say is not happening.
Dr. H A Hellyer of RUSI regards the demolitions as a ceasefire breach, though Washington is reluctant to acknowledge that. Shamir, however, stated the IDF expects Hamas to break the ceasefire’s next phase and is preparing for continued fighting.
Legal experts like Professor Adil Haque warn Israel’s destruction of civilian property may breach international laws of war, which permit demolition only for immediate military necessity.
Although active hostilities have paused, the large-scale demolitions in Gaza under Israeli control raise serious questions over adherence to ceasefire terms and hopes for lasting peace.