Occupied territories: Water deficit exceeds 70% in the Gaza Strip

The Gaza Strip is grappling with a critical water shortage, with a deficit exceeding 70%, as residents and displaced people endure harsh humanitarian and environmental conditions exacerbated by a severe heatwave. Palestinian sources attribute the crisis to the ongoing "Zionist aggression" against the Gaza Strip.

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The daily water needs of the Gaza Strip are estimated at some 100,000 cubic meters, while only 15,000 to 20,000 cubic meters are available, even in the best conditions.

Hosni Mehanna, spokesperson for the Gaza municipality, stated that the daily water needs of Gaza are estimated at approximately 100,000 cubic meters. However, only 15,000 to 20,000 cubic meters are available, even under optimal circumstances. This means the available quantity represents only about 20% of the actual needs.

The heatwave intensifies the suffering of the population, many of whom reside in tents lacking adequate insulation and ventilation. This is compounded by the scarcity of water, frequent electricity outages, and the deterioration of essential services. Mehanna highlighted that water requirements significantly increase during the summer for drinking, personal hygiene, and cleaning living spaces, placing immense pressure on the population due to the limited supply.

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The heatwave is aggravating the suffering of the inhabitants and the displaced, many of whom live in tents devoid of adequate insulation and ventilation.

Mehanna issued an urgent appeal to international and UN institutions, humanitarian organizations, and donors. He urged them to intervene immediately and pressure the "Zionist occupation authorities" to open crossings for humanitarian and relief needs. He called for the establishment of an urgent and sustainable humanitarian bridge to Gaza, not only for food and medicine but also for the necessary equipment to operate and restore essential services.

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We urge international and UN institutions, humanitarian organizations and donors to intervene immediately and put pressure on the Zionist occupation authorities to open the crossings for humanitarian and relief needs.