The water crisis in the Palestinian territories, particularly in Gaza, is a man-made disaster caused by Israel’s discriminatory water policies and infrastructure sabotage. This acute water shortage has far-reaching consequences for Palestinian health, sanitation, and overall well-being.
Limited Access to Water: Palestinians in the West Bank receive an average of 80 liters of water per day, which falls significantly below the World Health Organization’s recommended allocation of 100 liters. The situation is even more dire in Gaza, where residents have access to a mere 2 to 3 liters of water daily.
Concerns Regarding Water Quality: In Gaza, the available water is often contaminated with sewage and saltwater, making it unsafe for drinking and posing severe health risks. The forced consumption of unsafe water has led to a rise in waterborne diseases.
Israeli Oversight of Water Resources: Israel exercises control over the main aquifers in the occupied Palestinian territories, diverting an estimated 87% of this water for its own citizens. This unequal distribution exacerbates the water scarcity faced by Palestinians.
Destruction of Palestinian Water Infrastructure: Palestinian water infrastructure, including rainwater harvesting systems and water wells, has been repeatedly targeted and destroyed by Israeli forces. These actions have further hampered Palestinians’ ability to access clean and sufficient water.
Devastating Consequences: The water crisis in Gaza has had a devastating impact on public health, sanitation, and the healthcare system. The lack of clean water has contributed to the spread of infectious diseases and placed a strain on medical resources.
Addressing the water crisis in the Palestinian territories requires a comprehensive solution that tackles the root causes of the problem. This includes ending Israel’s discriminatory water policies, rebuilding Palestinian water infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to water resources.
Let's Keep it 100 