Satellite imagery indicates that Israel is rapidly expanding military fortifications across Gaza while civilian reconstruction remains largely stalled, according to an investigation by Al Jazeera.
Analysis of images from Planet Labs and Sentinel Hub found extensive military activity, particularly in Rafah, alongside minimal progress in clearing rubble in areas such as Beit Hanoon in the north and Rafah in the south.
Imagery from March 10 showed significant clearing and fortification at the al-Muntar hilltop in Shujayea, a neighbourhood in Gaza City, as well as military outposts in Khan Younis. In central Gaza, images from March 15 revealed construction of trenches and dirt berms extending toward the Maghazi camp near Deir el-Balah. In Juhor ad-Dik, newly built roads appear to connect existing military sites with newly levelled areas, suggesting the development of more permanent outposts.
The findings align with a 2025 investigation by Forensic Architecture, which identified 48 Israeli military sites in Gaza, including 13 built after an October ceasefire. These sites have reportedly evolved into permanent bases with paved roads, watchtowers, and communication links.
The satellite evidence also raises questions about US-backed reconstruction plans. At the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year, Jared Kushner presented AI-generated proposals for a redeveloped Rafah, while Donald Trump promoted a “Middle East Riviera” plan with significant funding commitments. However, images taken between February 20 and March 4 show no visible reconstruction or debris clearance at the proposed sites.
Changes to the ceasefire boundaries were also observed. In Beit Lahiya, satellite images from March 4 show dirt berms constructed along and beyond the designated ceasefire line, extending more than 580 metres into areas intended for Palestinian civilians.
Despite the ceasefire, Gaza’s Ministry of Health reported 750 deaths and more than 2,090 injuries since it began, bringing the total death toll since October 2023 to over 72,300. The report added that Israeli strikes have occurred on 160 of the 182 days since the ceasefire came into effect.