Israel’s systematic destruction of farmland and blockade, carried out before the eyes of the whole world, have brought agriculture in Gaza to the brink of total collapse. Satellite images show that 98.5% of cropland in the Gaza Strip is either damaged, inaccessible, or both. All civilians now face the escalating threat of famine, FAO reported.

A joint assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) reveals that 98.5% of cropland in the Gaza Strip is either damaged, inaccessible, or both. Only 232 hectares – 1.5% of total farmland – remain available for cultivation, down sharply from 688 hectares in April 2025.

Satellite imagery shows that 12.4% of cropland, while undamaged, is located in “no-go” zones, making it unreachable for farmers. Conflict has destroyed irrigation systems, roads, storage facilities, markets, and farming equipment, crippling Gaza’s ability to produce food.

“To prevent further suffering, we need to prioritize urgent humanitarian access and invest in restoring Gaza’s local agrifood production systems, markets, and infrastructure,” said Rein Paulsen, FAO’s Director of Emergencies and Resilience.

The findings follow an Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) alert warning that famine is already unfolding in Gaza. More than half a million people face famine-like conditions, while 39% of the population endures days without food.