In the heart of Gaza, families like Mohammad Al Shanti’s are grappling with an unimaginable crisis. Gaza’s water supply has dwindled to a mere trickle, leaving its 2.3 million residents on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe. Tragically, Gaza’s water crisis isn’t a new problem; it’s a dire situation decades in the making.
Since the brutal attacks in Israel by Hamas, Gaza has faced an unprecedented water emergency. Israel’s siege on the enclave has resulted in a drastic shortage of vital supplies, including water, food, and fuel. Gaza’s water production has plummeted to a mere 5% of normal levels, leaving people with less than 3 liters of water a day, a far cry from the WHO’s recommended 50 liters for basic needs.
With the water system in shambles, Gazans are resorting to drinking dirty, salty water, a dire situation that could lead to a surge in waterborne diseases. Hospitals, too, are on the verge of collapse, struggling to provide even basic sterilization due to the lack of water.
Gaza’s water crisis is not merely a consequence of recent events; it’s rooted in a complex web of factors. Over-extraction of the coastal aquifer, contamination from untreated wastewater, and pollution have rendered 97% of Gaza’s water undrinkable. Additionally, climate change exacerbates the problem, with rising sea levels increasing salinity and extreme weather events threatening water resources.
Israel’s control over Gaza’s water system has further complicated the situation, making it challenging to implement essential infrastructure projects. Items vital for water infrastructure are classified as “dual use,” requiring special permission for entry, hindering much-needed progress.
A Plea for Help
As the crisis deepens, Gazans find themselves trapped with no means to escape. Unlike in other conflict zones, relocation is not an option for Gazans; they are stuck in a desperate situation with no reprieve in sight.
The world must heed this urgent appeal for help. Gaza’s water crisis is a catastrophe unfolding before our eyes, demanding immediate international intervention. The lives of 2.3 million people hang in the balance, and it’s our collective responsibility to act swiftly and decisively.
