- KHAN YOUNIS, PALESTINE — OCT. 23, 2025: Once filled with the laughter of children, Gaza’s largest amusement park in the southern city of Khan Younis — featuring a zoo, rides, and a swimming pool — now houses tents for Palestinians struggling to survive.

Left homeless by Israeli attacks and displacement policies, hundreds of Palestinians have sought refuge in Asdaa Amusement Park.

Following the ceasefire, many residents, faced with severe destruction, were forced to shelter wherever possible.

UNEP and the UN Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) data show that 78% of buildings in Gaza were destroyed or severely damaged. The attacks generated 61 million tons of debris -- 20 times the total from all conflicts between 2008 and 2022 -- equivalent to 170,000 tons per square kilometer of Gaza’s area.

UNEP found that 11% of the debris contains asbestos, 8% heavy metals and toxic paint residues, and 3% burnt plastic and chemical waste.

Since October 2023, 90% of waste collection systems have collapsed, resulting in approximately 100,000 tons of medical, food, and chemical waste being left in open, uncontrolled areas.

The first phase of US President Donald Trump's 20-point Gaza ceasefire deal was reached Oct. 10. It includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Since October 2023, the Israeli war has killed over 68,200 victims and injured more than 170,300 in its genocidal war against Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Reporting by Muhammed Eslayeh / Writing by Ayse Elif Erdis