Lack of Clean Water Adds to the Misery in Gaza

February 3, 2025

IF Charity workers distribute fresh drinking water in North Gaza, as part of Emergency Response campaign in 2024
IF Charity workers distribute fresh drinking water in North Gaza, as part of Emergency Response campaign in 2024

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has led to severe water scarcity, leaving over 2 million residents without access to clean and safe drinking water. The destruction of vital infrastructure, ongoing conflict, and a lack of essential resources have exacerbated this dire situation.

As of December 2023, when the current conflict still hadn’t displaced most of Gaza, children in the Gaza Strip had access to only 10% of their normal water usage, with many receiving just 1.5 to 2 litres per day – far below the emergency minimum standard of 15 litres. 14 months on, we estimate that number to be a lot worse.

This severe clean water shortage has increased risks of waterborne diseases and other health complications, with children being particularly vulnerable. Reports indicate that children are suffering from intestinal infections and hepatitis due to the destruction of Gaza’s water supply and sanitation systems.

Access to clean water has been a long-standing issue in Gaza, and the ongoing conflict has made the situation worse. The destruction of water wells and sewage treatment facilities has left much of the population reliant on unsafe water sources. Over half of the water supply and wastewater management infrastructure in Gaza has been destroyed. The destruction of these facilities, such as the large water facility in Rafah, has led to a severe reduction in daily water access per person and compounded the humanitarian crisis.

Polio is back!

As a result of the clean water crisis, among other diseases, Gaza is witnessing the reemergence of polio – a disease that had been eradicated from the region over 25 years ago!

The polio virus thrives in environments with poor sanitation, and the current water crisis in Gaza provides the perfect breeding ground for its resurgence. Inadequate waste management and the contamination of water supplies with untreated sewage have created a public health emergency. Particularly vulnerable children are now at an increased risk of contracting this debilitating disease, alongside other waterborne illnesses like diarrhea and hepatitis​.

How You Can Help

The situation in Gaza is dire, but your compassion can bring hope. You have the power to choose to support water sanitation projects and other essential aid in Gaza that can make a tangible difference.

Support our clean water projects today and make a difference in the lives of Gaza’s most vulnerable populations. Donate now.

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