As part of an in-depth analysis of the situation on Gaza’s southern border, recent satellite images have highlighted the scale of destruction caused by ongoing military operations. More than 2,900 acres, or nearly 12 square kilometers, have been affected by bulldozers or suffered significant destruction from military strikes since the start of the Israeli Defense Forces ground operation in Rafah.
By comparing recent and archival satellite images from Planet Labs, it was possible to identify areas of southern Gaza that have been bulldozed or suffered significant destruction since the Rafah operation began on May 6. While the bulldozers initially began near the Egypt-Gaza border at Rafah, the work extended along the entire length of the border, known as the Philadelphia Corridor, and penetrated deep into the east and the center of Rafah.
The Philadelphia corridor has clearly been the main focus of the IDF’s bulldozing operations, with almost every building within 500 feet of the entire border having been razed by the bulldozers. It is unclear, however, from satellite images whether the IDF, through its bulldozing operations, is preparing the ground for a permanent presence at the border.
The IDF has repeatedly claimed to have found evidence of smuggling tunnels from Gaza to Egypt along the border. When asked to comment on the analysis, the IDF did not confirm the total area affected but said its actions were based on “military necessity” and were “necessary to implement a defense plan which will provide improved security in southern Israel.”
The IDF added that these actions were carried out to locate and destroy terrorist infrastructures hidden, among other things, inside buildings and these areas. Bulldozing is also occurring far from the border area, affecting entire parts of eastern and central Rafah, where entire blocks of houses have been completely razed or heavily damaged since the beginning of May.
This analysis of satellite images highlights the complexity of the situation on Gaza’s southern border and raises questions about the humanitarian and political consequences of these military operations. The international community must continue to closely monitor developments and seek consensual solutions to achieve peace and stability in the region.