Gaza Tent Cities Grow Amid Widespread Distruction

More than one in 10 people from Gaza’s pre-war population have been killed or wounded since Israel launched its military campaign against Palestinians in the territory in October 2023.

The prolonged conflict has left families across Gaza mourning relatives, caring for the injured and repeatedly moving in search of safety.

With much of the population displaced, makeshift shelters have become a defining feature of the territory.

Tents made from canvas and nylon now cover beaches, former agricultural areas and vacant plots, turning large parts of Gaza into sprawling temporary settlements.

While a 2025 ceasefire agreement brought an end to large-scale offensives and the heaviest bombardment, attacks have continued. Tents, vehicles and buildings have remained targets of Israeli strikes, with civilians among those killed.

For many residents, the challenge has shifted from escaping active fighting to finding a way to rebuild their lives.

However, rebuilding remains difficult as Israel continues to restrict the entry of many construction materials into Gaza.

Plans for large-scale reconstruction under the ceasefire agreement have also stalled as Israel and Hamas remain divided over the disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

The result is a territory where millions remain displaced, surrounded by widespread destruction and with limited prospects for returning to normal life in the immediate future.