Newly released satellite images have unveiled the widespread destruction caused by almost three weeks of Israeli bombardments on cities and towns in Gaza, as reported by the Guardian. The pictures, provided by Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs, depict crumpled apartment buildings and entire neighborhoods reduced to ruins.

The Israeli military has been targeting Gaza in response to the 7 October attacks by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people and the hostage-taking of over 200 individuals. Israel's objective has been to dismantle Hamas, which currently governs Gaza.

The city of Beit Hanoun, located near the northern border with Israel, is among the areas heavily impacted by the airstrikes. The satellite images show four- and five-storey buildings in various states of collapse, with substantial portions missing or broken. Two large complexes are reduced to piles of rubble. The Israeli Air Force announced that Beit Hanoun had been struck "120 times" as it served as a hub for Hamas militants rampaging through southern Israel.

The damage inflicted is immense, with entire neighborhoods in Gaza City, like Al Karameh, reduced to grey wastelands. The United Nations (UN) estimates that 42% of housing units have been rendered uninhabitable over the past three weeks, with thousands more suffering moderate damage. As a result, the number of displaced people has surged, with estimates ranging from 400,000 to a million Palestinians now homeless, according to the UN and Palestinian Red Crescent.

Satellite images also reveal the extent of destruction in the Al-Atatra area of Beit Lahiya, where the ash and rubble from airstrikes have engulfed entire neighborhoods. The grim images provide a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict.

Amid the widespread destruction, the UN has issued a warning that its fuel supplies are running dangerously low, posing a threat to the ability of its agencies to operate effectively in Gaza. The dire situation further compounds the challenges faced by the already struggling population.

As Israeli airstrikes persist, the full scale of the damage continues to unfold. The international community remains deeply concerned about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for an immediate ceasefire and efforts towards a lasting and peaceful resolution.

Stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates on the situation in Gaza and the efforts to alleviate the suffering of its residents amidst the ongoing conflict.