As the United Nations threatens to suspend aid operations in the Gaza Strip, Israel plans to activate a desalination plant in Khan Yunis to provide drinking water to hundreds of thousands of residents.
Amidst ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip, Israel is taking steps to address a critical issue: the scarcity of fresh water. The United Nations recently threatened to suspend aid operations due to concerns about Israel's protection of humanitarian workers. In response, Israel has announced plans to activate a desalination plant in Khan Yunis, which will significantly increase the availability of drinking water for residents.
The desalination facility, established with UNICEF funding in 2017, has been operating at a reduced capacity due to limited electricity supply. However, Israel will provide new electricity power lines to increase the facility's capacity from its current 1,500 cubic meters per day to approximately 20,000 cubic meters.
Israel to Increase Fresh Water Access in Gaza by Boosting Desalination Plant
The Israeli defense minister urged US cooperation against Iran and its proxies, highlighting the increasing risk of a war with Hezbollah. Israel's plan to increase the electricity supply to the desalination plant in Khan Yunis will require 5 megawatts of electricity. This will be provided through a power line connected by Israel.
To ensure the smooth operation of the plant, the Israel Defense Forces and Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories will assist with laying additional lines and providing security. The international community and NGOs will be allowed to bring in equipment and conduct infrastructure works after passing a mandatory security inspection.
Israel to Increase Fresh Water Access in Gaza by Boosting Desalination Plant
The United Nations has expressed concerns about the protection of humanitarian workers in Gaza and has warned that it may have to suspend aid operations if Israel does not provide better protection. While no final decision has been made, ongoing talks between the UN and Israeli officials seek a solution to these concerns.
The UN humanitarian coordinator has written to the Israeli military, and the UN undersecretary for security has held discussions with Israeli officials. Despite the challenges, the UN remains committed to supporting the people of Gaza and is exploring all avenues to resolve the issues.
Israel to Increase Fresh Water Access in Gaza by Boosting Desalination Plant
In addition to the desalination facility, trucks from Egypt and the United States Agency for International Development have also entered Gaza with humanitarian aid. Amidst ongoing airstrikes and heightened tensions, the provision of clean water and other essential resources remains crucial for the well-being of Gaza's population.
The Israeli security official emphasized that the Khan Yunis plant is the largest in the region. While the exact cost of the project remains undisclosed, its implementation suggests that Israel may explore establishing additional desalination plants to further increase water output. This aligns with Israel's long-term water management strategy, which includes desalination as a key component.
Israel to Increase Fresh Water Access in Gaza by Boosting Desalination Plant
Israel's decision to activate the Khan Yunis desalination plant is a significant step towards addressing the water crisis in the Gaza Strip. By increasing the capacity of the plant, hundreds of thousands of residents will have access to clean drinking water, improving their health and overall well-being. This move underscores the importance of collaboration and cooperation between Israel and the international community in ensuring the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.
