What it is about

Israeli and Palestinian authorities have started work to increase the electric power supply to a desalination plant in the Gaza Strip. This initiative aims to enhance water production for civilians in designated “humanitarian zones” where most Gazan residents currently reside.

Why it matters

According to Israeli security officials, the project is crucial for sustaining ongoing operations against Hamas in Gaza. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized in an internal document that boosting water supply in Gaza is a “basic humanitarian need.” Ensuring adequate water and sanitation helps prevent a broader humanitarian crisis, benefiting both Palestinian civilians and Israeli security interests.

What they’re saying

Despite its humanitarian benefits, some Israeli government ministers expressed opposition. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich voiced his frustration on social media, arguing against the reconstruction efforts without prior demilitarization of Gaza.

Defense officials’ perspective:

The overarching sentiment among defense officials is that providing this essential service allows the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to continue their critical operations against Hamas, which has severely impacted Gaza’s infrastructure since their attack on Israel on October 7.

Water facility’s capability:

Officials noted that the desalination plant could potentially provide 20,000 cubic meters of water daily to the humanitarian zones once connected to the Israeli power grid. Currently, the plant only produces about 1,500 cubic meters due to limited electricity.

Broader context

The desalination facility, created with UN funding in 2017, was constructed to deliver drinkable water to key areas such as Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Mawasi—zones that currently host the majority of Gaza’s 1.9 million residents within the “humanitarian zone” designated by Israel.

Given the summer heat and critical need for sanitation, consistent water supplies are imperative. Improved water access will help mitigate diseases and support both local inhabitants and Israeli soldiers stationed in Gaza.

The bottom line

Ensuring the availability of drinking water aligns with international humanitarian standards and fortifies Israel’s framework for continuous defensive measures against Hamas. By addressing the immediate needs of Gazan civilians, Israel can maintain operational stability and prevent escalating humanitarian and diplomatic pressures.

Further points of note:

• The desalination plant is managed by the Palestinian Water Authority and international humanitarian organizations, ensuring no support for Hamas.
• Israel retains oversight and will cease the plant’s operations if Hamas attempts to exploit the power supply.
• About 1.9 million Palestinians currently live in the designated humanitarian zone, while some residents remain in the north and Rafah areas.

Author’s Note

Contributions from Reuters have provided valuable insights into the sociopolitical and operational dynamics concerning the Gaza Strip’s ongoing situation.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.