Gaza is facing a severe public health crisis as uncontrolled sewage discharge has led to widespread contamination of water sources and the Mediterranean coastline, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Recent satellite images analyzed by BBC Arabic reveal significant sewage spills off the coast of Deir al-Balah, covering over 2 square kilometers. Local officials report that displaced individuals in nearby camps have been improperly connecting their sewage pipes to rainwater drainage systems, leading to direct discharge into the sea.
The deteriorating situation is a result of intensive Israeli bombardment which has severely damaged Gaza’s wastewater management infrastructure. The Israeli Defense Ministry’s unit, Cogat, has acknowledged the issue and stated that efforts are underway to restore water wells, desalination facilities, and extend water pipes. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain as independent verification is limited due to restricted access to Gaza.
Health experts have raised alarms over the spread of waterborne diseases. The first case of polio in Gaza in 25 years has been reported, affecting a 10-month-old baby and highlighting the critical state of public health. The UN and WHO have called for ceasefires to facilitate vaccination efforts for 600,000 children, but delivery of vaccines faces significant logistical challenges due to the ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage.
The contamination is also impacting Gaza’s Sheikh Radwan Lagoon, which has become polluted with raw sewage. This has led to severe sanitary conditions, with residents reporting overwhelming odors and increased rodent activity. The health crisis has been compounded by a surge in cases of Hepatitis A and concerns over a potential cholera outbreak. The destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system has made it extremely difficult for doctors to address the rising number of cases of dysentery, pneumonia, and severe skin diseases.
The UN estimates that nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been internally displaced since the onset of the conflict last autumn. Many are living in overcrowded shelters with inadequate sanitation facilities, such as one toilet serving 600 people. The dire sanitary conditions, coupled with ongoing conflict, continue to pose severe risks to the health and safety of Gaza’s population.
