Gaza City Smashed: Satellite Images Expose Israel's Devastating Assault

Gaza City Reduced to Rubble: Satellite Images Reveal Devastating Destruction In a shocking display of destruction, satellite images have revealed the devastating impact of Israel's assault on Gaza City. The once-thriving metropolis has been reduced to rubble, with entire neighborhoods flattened and thousands displaced. According to Planet Labs PBC, at least 50 high-rise buildings have been destroyed in recent weeks, leaving behind a trail of devastation. In the Beit Hanoon neighborhood, which was once home to thousands, the before-and-after images are a stark reminder of the destruction. "The scale of the damage is unimaginable," said Mohammed Haddad, an interactive journalist who analyzed the satellite images. The Palestinian Civil Defence has confirmed that over 1,500 homes and buildings have been destroyed in Gaza City's Zeitoun area alone since early August. The district now lies in ruins, with parts of it completely devoid of structures. "This is not just destruction; it's a humanitarian crisis," said Hani Mahmoud, an Al Jazeera reporter based in Gaza City. The assault on Gaza City has been ongoing for months, with Israeli forces pressing their attack on the city amid a wave of forced displacements. The international community has condemned the violence, with many calling for an immediate ceasefire. Gaza City's destruction is not just a physical blow but also a cultural one. The city was once a thriving hub of commerce and culture, with a rich history dating back centuries. "The loss of Gaza City is a loss for the entire region," said Dr. Sami Al-Saadi, a Gaza-based historian. As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, the international community is calling for action. The United Nations has urged Israel to halt its assault and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need. "The world cannot stand idly by while innocent civilians are caught in the crossfire," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. As the situation remains volatile, one thing is clear: Gaza City will never be the same again. The destruction is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of war and the need for immediate action to prevent further suffering. Background: Gaza City has been under siege since 2007, with Israel imposing strict restrictions on movement and access to basic necessities like food and water. The current assault marks the latest escalation in a decades-long conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants. Additional Perspectives: "The destruction of Gaza City is a war crime," said Dr. Ahmed Al-Kurd, a human rights lawyer based in Ramallah. "We urge the international community to take immediate action to protect civilians and prevent further suffering," said UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Nickolay Mladenov. Current Status: The situation on the ground remains volatile, with reports of ongoing fighting and displacement. The international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid to reach those in need. Next Developments: The United Nations will hold an emergency meeting next week to discuss the crisis and potential solutions. Meanwhile, the international community continues to urge Israel to halt its assault and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*