WATER RIGHTS Gaza Strip
Contaminated aquifer: Gaza’s coastal aquifer has been severely depleted and contaminated by saltwater intrusion and sewage due to over-extraction and the damage or destruction of water infrastructure. Before the 2023 conflict, up to 97% of water from this aquifer was unfit for human consumption.
Siege and bombardment: Following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, Israel’s declared “complete siege” on Gaza included cutting off electricity, fuel, and water supplies. Airstrikes have caused massive damage to water and sanitation facilities, leaving over 90% of households without water security as of mid-2025.
Blocking aid: Israel has severely restricted or refused the entry of critical equipment, spare parts, and fuel needed to repair damaged water infrastructure and operate desalination plants. This has made it nearly impossible for humanitarian organizations like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to scale up water production.
Low water availability: The average Gazan has had access to only 3 to 5 liters of water per day for all needs, far below the internationally accepted emergency standard of 15 liters.
Posted by Irv Himelblau