In May this year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched an invasion of Rafah, aiming to gain control over the Gaza-Egypt border, an eight-mile stretch of land known as the “Philadelphi Corridor.” Recent satellite imagery reveals extensive destruction, not only along the corridor but also in neighbourhoods up to two kilometres away, such as the eastern part of Tall As Sultan. Out of roughly 670 buildings in that area, only 224 remain standing.

Historical imagery from Google Earth indicates that this largely residential area was developed over a decade ago. However, most buildings were demolished between July 18 and August 4, 2024, following the IDF’s arrival.

In May, U.S. President Joe Biden, during an interview with CNN, warned Israel by setting a “red line.” He stated that if the IDF entered populated areas of Rafah, like Tall As Sultan, the U.S. would begin to limit the weapons it supplies to Israel. Days later, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken clarified that this red line referred specifically to a “major military operation” in Rafah. The Biden administration’s stance remains unchanged.

However, additional satellite imagery shows that the landscape in other parts of Rafah and southern Gaza, beyond Tall As Sultan, has been dramatically altered since May.