Gaza is grappling with a severe humanitarian and health crisis as the Israeli blockade and widespread destruction of infrastructure cripple essential services, particularly water, sewage, and waste management. With crossings closed for ten consecutive days, vital aid, including fuel for water wells and sewage plants, remains blocked, exacerbating an already dire situation.  

Maher Salem, director of Gaza Municipality’s Water and Sewage Department, warned that water supplies have plummeted to just 10 litres per person daily—10% of the normal rate. “If this continues, the situation will worsen, threatening the lives of over two million people,” he told Filistin newspaper. Israeli forces have destroyed 47 water wells and damaged 17 others, severely depleting Gaza’s water sources and making it nearly impossible to meet basic needs.  

The sewage system is also collapsing. Salem highlighted that fuel shortages have halted the operation of sewage networks, forcing untreated waste into rainwater ponds now filled to capacity. “Sheikh Radwan pond contains over half a million cubic metres of sewage, threatening groundwater contamination and disease outbreaks,” he said. During the war, Israel destroyed 655,000 metres of sewage networks, compounding the crisis.  

Waste management has ground to a halt, with over 190,000 cubic metres of garbage accumulating in Gaza’s streets. “The waste has become a breeding ground for insects and rodents, spreading diseases and foul odours,” Salem added. The destruction of 88% of Gaza’s infrastructure, including homes and vital facilities, has left the strip in ruins.  

Salem described the situation as an “unprecedented environmental and health catastrophe,” urging immediate Arab, Islamic, and international intervention. He called for fuel, equipment, and solar panels to restore basic services and prevent further deterioration. “This crisis threatens not only Gaza but also neighbouring areas. We need urgent action before it spirals out of control,” he concluded.