The Gaza Municipality has issued a desperate warning over a growing health and environmental disaster as mountains of waste choke the city’s streets. With over 250,000 tonnes of rubbish accumulating, officials fear an explosion of disease-carrying pests and contamination, putting lives at risk.  

Municipal crews, stretched to breaking point, are struggling to clear main roads and dump waste in makeshift sites. But their efforts are crippled by severe shortages—vehicles, fuel, and access to the main landfill in Jhar al-Dik remain blocked by Israeli forces.  

"The city is drowning in filth," said municipal spokesperson Hosni Muhanna. "Over 175,000 tonnes of waste sit rotting on the streets while Israel bars us from reaching the landfill." The blockade has also prevented spare parts and equipment from entering, leaving Gaza with just a handful of broken-down trucks to handle the crisis.  

Months of Israeli bombardment have left another nightmare—15 million tonnes of rubble—with no way to clear it without heavy machinery. The municipality has pleaded for international intervention, demanding Israel allow in aid and equipment before disease takes hold.  

Since March, Israel’s total siege has cut off food, water, and medicine, pushing Gaza deeper into starvation and despair. Without urgent action, officials warn, a full-blown health catastrophe looms for two million trapped Palestinians.