Zahdi Al-Ghariz, advisor to the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Local Government, has warned that Israel’s decision to cut electricity to Gaza’s main desalination plant in Deir al-Balah, coupled with the ongoing fuel blockade, has left the Strip without safe drinking water.  

Al-Ghariz stated that Gaza faces an unprecedented disaster if Israel continues to close crossings and deny power to the desalination plant. He accused Israel of using starvation as a tactic to pressure Palestinian civilians and force resistance groups to surrender.  

The desalination plant, which produced over 20,000 liters of clean water daily, served large parts of Khan Younis and the Central Governorate. However, without electricity or fuel for generators, the plant can no longer operate. Solar power is not an option, as Israel blocks the entry of necessary equipment. Even generators, if diesel were available, can only run for eight hours.  

Al-Ghariz lamented that municipalities have lost the ability to operate local wells, leaving Gaza’s population without access to clean water. He warned that the international community’s inaction could lead to catastrophic consequences for Gaza’s 2.4 million residents.  

As the water crisis deepens, Gaza teeters on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe, with the world’s silence enabling Israel’s systematic oppression. Immediate intervention is needed to prevent further suffering and loss of life.