Article:
A new investigation into the ongoing situation in Gaza has revealed that Israel is rapidly expanding its military infrastructure while construction in civilian areas has almost come to a standstill. The investigation, conducted by the Digital Investigation Unit of Al Jazeera, analyzed satellite images from Planet Lab and Sentinel Hub, revealing a stark contrast between the two regions. In Rafah, a city in southern Gaza that was earmarked for rebuilding under an American plan, no progress has been made yet.
Satellite images from late February to mid-March show that debris removal in northern areas of Beit Hanoun and Rafah has stalled, while Israel’s military is busy establishing permanent military installations. The investigation also found that the Al-Muntar (Al-Muntar) hill in Gaza City’s Shuja’iyya neighborhood and the military checkpoints in Khan Younis are being rapidly fortified.
On Tuesday, Israeli forces launched airstrikes against two UN schools in Gaza, where Palestinian refugees were taking shelter, resulting in the deaths of at least 23 people. In central Gaza, trenches and mud barriers are being constructed near the Maghazi camp and Deir al-Balah, while new roads are being built in Juhor al-Dik to connect existing military bases to new areas, indicating a permanent military presence.
These findings are consistent with a 2025 report by Forensic Architecture, which identified 48 Israeli military sites in Gaza, 13 of which were allegedly established after the ceasefire. These sites have since become permanent bases with roads, watchtowers, and communication systems.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s proposed plan for a new Rafah settlement has raised concerns about population transfer and geographical change. The plan, presented by Jared Kushner at the World Economic Forum, envisions high-rise buildings and resorts, but human rights organizations have warned that it could lead to the displacement of Palestinians and the fragmentation of Gaza.
The report also highlights the challenges faced by human rights organizations and media in monitoring the situation on the ground due to restrictions on satellite access. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported that two Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes over the past 24 hours.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed support for a comprehensive and immediate ceasefire, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed regret over the desecration of a statue of Jesus Christ by Israeli forces. The US has announced that it will continue negotiations with Iran, while China has expressed concern over the US’s decision to seize Iranian cargo ships.
