Gaza urban profile: Gaza crisis

The Israeli military operation that lasted from July 8 to August 26, 2014 in the Gaza Strip has led to massive displacement and destruction of buildings and urban systems (ex. water, electricity, sanitation). This has greatly exacerbated an already precarious situation as the long blockade of the Gaza Strip had resulted in acute vulnerabilities, including a serious housing shortfall. On one hand, neighborhoods have been partially or completely abandoned and return will depend on restoring of basic functionalities and emergency housing support. In some cases quick return will not be possible in view of the scale of destruction. On the other hand, neighborhoods that have received displaced families are overstretched. Some neighborhoods witnessed both concentrated destruction and inward migration. An overall picture of the urban conditions of neighborhood, such as shelter, infrastructure, commercial and social services conditions, can help to prioritize, localize and streamline immediate and longer term interventions. and unleash opportunities that must be capitalized on. Of particular importance, is the need to understand the crisis impacts on vulnerable groups; especially women and children and the poorest communities throughout the Strip.