Israeli strike destroys newly built desalination plant in Gaza, worsening water crisis

On August 24, an Israeli airstrike destroyed a newly built desalination plant in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood of Gaza City, which had been providing free clean water to 17 shelters and collective centers for about two months. The strike also damaged nearby displacement tents and residential structures. The plant's owner, Mohammed Mahmoud, estimates losses of at least $500,000. The destruction has forced residents like 74-year-old Zuhair al-Nasr to travel long distances to find water, relying on groundwater wells or water trucks that often arrive infrequently. The broader water crisis in Gaza is severe: a UN-cited survey found 90% of Gaza's population experienced frequent water disruptions in early July, and UNICEF reported that up to 63% of people could not collect the minimum recommended six liters per day in August. Residents report health issues from water scarcity, including a child hospitalized with a stomach illness. The Israeli military has not commented on the specific strike, but residents reject allegations that the plant was used for military purposes.