The Gaza Strip is on the brink of a severe drinking water crisis as Israel’s blockade prevents the entry of diesel fuel needed to operate desalination plants, threatening their shutdown in the coming days. For the eighth consecutive day, the Israeli occupation has closed the Kerem Abu Salem crossing, cutting off fuel supplies and humanitarian aid, which could paralyze essential services, including water desalination facilities.  

Owners of desalination plants warn that the fuel shortage will force them to cease operations, leaving Gaza’s population without access to clean drinking water. This could lead to widespread disease, particularly among children. Residents, already struggling to meet their basic needs, now face long queues to secure a few gallons of water from trucks.  

Abu Ahmed Abdul Qader, a Gaza resident, describes the situation as "catastrophic." He spends hours each day waiting for water trucks, often returning home empty-handed. "Water is life, and without it, we cannot survive," he says. Ahmed Al-Danf, another resident, echoes this sentiment, stressing that the crisis has worsened since the blockade was tightened. "We need immediate intervention to avoid a disaster," he adds.  

Raed Hamad, a water truck owner, explains that the fuel shortage has driven up costs dramatically. Diesel, now sold on the black market at 45 shekels per liter, has doubled in price, making water delivery prohibitively expensive. "If this continues, a cup of water could cost 100 shekels soon," he warns.  

Mohammed Abu Odeh, financial manager of a desalination company, highlights the broader challenges, including a lack of spare parts for maintenance due to Israel’s restrictions. "We’re doing everything we can, but without fuel and spare parts, we can’t keep up with demand," he says. Adel Attallah, director of another plant, warns that his facility may shut down within a week if fuel supplies are not restored.  

The looming shutdown of desalination plants poses a dire threat to Gaza’s population, already grappling with severe humanitarian conditions. Calls are mounting for international pressure on Israel to open crossings and allow the entry of fuel and essential supplies to avert a full-blown water crisis. As Ramadan continues, the urgency for action grows, with Gaza’s residents pleading for relief from the relentless siege.