Following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Palestinians returning to Rafah in southern Gaza were confronted with widespread devastation. The city, heavily bombed during 15 months of conflict, has been reduced to rubble.
Rafah Mayor Ahmed Al-Sufi described the city as a “disaster,” with infrastructure, homes, roads, and public facilities largely destroyed. “The damage exceeds the municipality’s capacity,” he said, highlighting the extensive destruction of water and electricity networks.
According to UN data, over 60% of Gaza’s buildings have been destroyed, with 65% of roads rendered unusable. The UN estimates over 42 million tons of hazardous debris now fill the region, requiring 21 years and $1.2 billion to clear. The humanitarian toll underscores the immense challenges ahead for recovery efforts.
Muhammed Rabah