Gaza authorities launch emergency plan to raze 255 war-damaged structures

Gaza’s Government Media Office unveiled an "urgent emergency plan" targeting 255 buildings rendered unsafe by Israeli attacks for demolition. The directive, issued to relevant ministries, calls for immediate field work, formal evacuation notices to owners, installation of warning signs and the setup of temporary shelters for affected families. Authorities acknowledge obstacles such as families unwilling to evacuate, insufficient funding, a shortage of demolition equipment due to the ongoing siege, and a scarcity of land to house those displaced.

The plan was prompted by the overnight collapse of a six-storey building in Gaza City’s Tal al-Hawa district, which housed at least 100 displaced residents and resulted in 21 deaths, including five children. Officials emphasized that the demolition effort is part of a broader crisis-management strategy to prevent further casualties. The announcement highlights the humanitarian challenges facing the besieged enclave as it grapples with extensive war damage.