Google Earth Satellite Images Show Scale of Destruction in Southern Gaza

Google Earth updated some of its satellite images of the Gaza Strip on September 27, with new visuals dated February 2026 covering mainly the southern part of the enclave, according to a report by RFI.

It had been two years since Google last made public satellite photos of this part of Palestinian territory, RFI reported. The American technology giant's satellite imagery now serves as evidence of the destruction of entire neighborhoods, particularly around Rafah, attributed in the report to the Israeli military.

Documenting the Aftermath

RFI's report frames the renewed imagery as a significant resource for assessing the scale of damage in areas of Gaza that have been difficult to independently verify through on-the-ground reporting, given access restrictions during the conflict. Satellite imagery has increasingly served as a tool for journalists, researchers, and human rights monitors seeking to document changes to the territory over time.

The report does not specify why Google had not updated imagery of this area for two years or whether further updates covering other parts of Gaza, including the north, are expected. It also does not detail the precise scale of destruction shown, beyond describing entire neighborhoods as affected, particularly around Rafah.

The update comes as reconstruction of Gaza remains a central topic in diplomatic discussions regarding the territory's future, with the extent of documented destruction likely to inform assessments of the scale of rebuilding required.