Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, a dire water catastrophe is unfolding, pushing over two million people to the brink of a humanitarian crisis. The situation, worsened by long-standing struggles for water and exacerbated by the current hostilities, paints a bleak picture for the residents of Gaza.

For the past 16 years, Gaza has endured the weight of a crippling blockade that severely restricts access to essential resources, particularly water. With over two million people under siege, the water situation has become desperate, making it crucial to understand the devastating short- and long-term impacts on civilians.

According to the UN-Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) cluster, a mere three litres of water per person are available each day in Gaza, well below the recommended 7.5 to 20 litres for basic health needs. Bottled water stocks are dwindling, and the cost has skyrocketed, rendering water a luxury item in Gaza.

The destruction of water infrastructure due to bombings and the severe limitation of water and power supplies by Israel have created a multifaceted crisis. Water trucking operations have been hampered or halted in northern parts, leaving communities without a reliable water source.

In the midst of this chaos, people are embarking on perilous journeys to find drinkable water. Fuel shortages add another layer of complexity, making the quality of existing water sources even worse. Families are struggling to access basic hygiene facilities, and the risk of diseases such as cholera is increasing.

The situation is dire, with untreated sewage discharged into the sea and solid waste accumulating in the streets. Overworked municipal staff are battling to access water wells producing brackish water, exacerbating the already critical water shortage.

Children under five are particularly vulnerable, facing an increased risk of waterborne diseases due to the scarcity of clean water. Women and girls are disproportionately affected, dealing with challenges in infant formula preparation, breast milk production, and menstrual management.

Hospitals, lacking essential water supplies, are putting the lives of thousands at immediate risk. Maintaining sanitary conditions is essential for preventing hospital-associated infections and preserving the lives of critically ill patients.

As Gaza faces a catastrophe of unimaginable proportions, international action is urgently needed to address the immediate and long-term consequences of the water crisis. Organizations like Oxfam are working to distribute essential hygiene items, but the scale of need and logistical challenges pose significant obstacles.

Violating international humanitarian law, which explicitly protects civilian infrastructure, including water systems, necessitates immediate attention. A call for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of water to Gaza has been made, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Gaza's quest for water is not just a search for survival; it is a plea for fundamental human rights. The world must act swiftly to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and provide the necessary support to those facing the devastating impacts of the water crisis in Gaza.