A severe water crisis is unfolding in the Gaza Strip, where Israel's power cutoff has forced key desalination facilities to shut down, sparking fears of a humanitarian catastrophe. The Deir al-Balah municipality has reported a complete halt in operations at its main desalination plants, which were disconnected from Israel's electricity supply.


This development comes on the heels of Israel's decision to partially cut off the water supply to the Gaza Strip, exacerbating an already dire situation. The amount of water available in the region has dwindled to a mere 25% of its natural levels, with over 70% lost due to the destruction of supply lines.
Maher Ashur Salem, the director general of planning, water, and sanitation in the Gaza Municipality, warns that the situation could become even more perilous if Israel cuts off Mekorot's water supply, which accounts for approximately 80% of the water available in the Gaza Strip.

As the water crisis deepens, the humanitarian toll is mounting. Al-Aqsa TV reports that 31 sick and wounded individuals are en route to the Rafah crossing, seeking medical treatment abroad. The international community is urged to intervene and address this escalating crisis.