At least 20 killed after war-damaged Gaza building collapses

September 16, 2026

Gaza City: A war-damaged residential building collapsed in Gaza City on Wednesday, killing at least 20 Palestinians and injuring 14 others, according to Gaza’s Civil Defence and local health officials. Dozens of people were reported trapped under the rubble as rescue operations continued.

Building Had Been Damaged During War

The seven-storey building had previously been damaged in Israeli airstrikes during the Israel-Hamas war. It was being used as shelter by displaced Palestinian families despite concerns over its structural condition. Reuters reported that the building was among an estimated 2,000 structures in Gaza that have been damaged during the conflict.

Rescue Teams Search For Survivors

Civil Defence teams and residents were searching through the rubble for survivors, with rescue efforts complicated by limited heavy machinery and equipment. Local officials said more people could still be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.

The collapse highlights the risks faced by Palestinians living in damaged buildings amid widespread destruction and limited shelter options across Gaza. AP reported that many displaced families have returned to damaged structures because of the lack of safe housing alternatives.

Death Toll Revised As Rescue Operation Continues

Early reports from Reuters put the death toll at 12 before later updates from Gaza authorities raised it to at least 20. The number of casualties could change as rescuers continue recovering people from the site.