In a devastating blow to Gaza’s already collapsing infrastructure, Israeli occupation forces have severed the only power line supplying electricity to the central desalination plant in Deir al-Balah. This critical facility provides drinking water to over a million people, including thousands of displaced Palestinians, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

The plant, which produces more than 16,000 cubic meters of drinking water daily, alternates its supply between Deir al-Balah and Khan Yunis—both areas overcrowded with displaced families. Its shutdown comes as part of Israel’s escalating punitive measures following the expiration of a ceasefire phase on 3 February, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering a complete halt to humanitarian aid and commercial goods into Gaza.

Nizar Ayyash, mayor of Deir al-Balah, condemned the Israeli move as “shocking,” warning that it will further endanger vulnerable communities already facing extreme hardship. The plant previously operated at minimal capacity using solar panels and generators due to fuel shortages, but a partial restoration was made possible in mid-2024 with international assistance. Now, with the power cut once again, Gaza is pushed to the brink of catastrophe.

Eight water wells in Deir al-Balah were destroyed during Israel’s war on Gaza, alongside the destruction of the only water pipeline (“Mekorot”) connecting the region to the occupied territories. With no alternative sources and no sufficient fuel for backup generators, the availability of clean water is rapidly diminishing, increasing the risk of dehydration, malnutrition, and deadly disease outbreaks.

The Union of Gaza Municipalities has urged the international community to intervene, demanding immediate action to restore water, sanitation, and essential services. The destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure, combined with chronic shortages of food, medicine, and electricity, has left its people in near-total darkness, struggling to survive amid worsening conditions.

As Gaza’s humanitarian crisis deepens, calls for accountability grow louder. Human rights advocates and world leaders must demand Israel lift its restrictions, ensure safe passage for humanitarian aid, and allow the rebuilding of critical infrastructure. For now, the people of Gaza remain trapped in an unrelenting cycle of deprivation, their resilience tested daily by policies designed to break their spirit.