FAO: Only 3% of Gaza cropland usable

A new geospatial assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organization and International — UNOSAT, released on August 18, 2026, reveals that only 3% (448 hectares) of the Gaza Strip's cropland remains both accessible and undamaged as of June 24, 2026. This marks a 25.5% decline from the 601 hectares recorded in October 2025, following the ceasefire. The reduction is primarily attributed to the westward expansion of the 'Yellow Line' separating the ceasefire zone from the Israel Defense Forces-controlled area, rather than additional physical damage. Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis saw the largest reductions, while Rafah has the highest inaccessibility rates (97.2% cropland, 98.4% greenhouse area). Greenhouse availability also declined to 224 hectares. Farmers face critical shortages of seeds, fertilizers, irrigation equipment, and fuel, and livestock keepers struggle to obtain feed and veterinary supplies. The Food and Agriculture Organization called for urgent action to restore safe access and support agricultural rehabilitation. Before the October 2023 escalation, agriculture contributed about 10% of Gaza's economy and supported over 560,000 people. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has devastated the enclave, with over 73,000 reported deaths and nearly 70% of territory under Israeli control.