Gaza War 1,000 Days: 90% Destroyed, Israeli Control Expands as Peace Plan Fails
In the 1,000 days since the war began on 7 October 2023, the situation in the Gaza Strip has reached unprecedented devastation, with local authorities stating that over 90% of the territory has been destroyed and around 80% is under Israeli control.
According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, more than 73,000 Palestinians have been killed, including over 21,500 children and more than 1,000 infants. Tens of thousands remain injured, while around 9,500 people are missing and feared trapped under rubble.
Authorities say roughly 223,000 tonnes of explosives have been dropped on Gaza since the war began, contributing to mass destruction of housing, hospitals, and infrastructure. The UN estimates around 68 million tonnes of rubble now cover the enclave, with only a fraction cleared.
The humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply. Widespread famine risk persists, with hundreds of thousands surviving on minimal food, while healthcare systems are collapsing and life expectancy has dropped significantly.
Despite a ceasefire framework and international plans led by a US-backed “Board of Peace,” implementation has stalled. Israel is accused of expanding its control instead of withdrawing, while aid deliveries remain far below commitments.
Negotiations over Gaza’s future remain deadlocked, particularly over disarmament demands tied to reconstruction. Meanwhile, reconstruction plans exist locally, but officials say they cannot proceed without open borders and stability.
Inside Israel, political leaders continue to push for expanded control and security buffer zones, while protests mark 1,000 days since the October 2023 attacks led by Hamas on Israel, reflecting deep domestic divisions over the war’s handling and long-term strategy.
