Oxfam: Israel has used water as a 'weapon of war'

In a report titled "Water War Crimes" published by Oxfam, it was emphasized that Israel has systematically targeted water infrastructure in Gaza.

The report states that since the start of Israeli attacks in October 2023, there has been only 4.74 liters of water available per person per day in Gaza for all uses, including drinking, cooking, and washing, highlighting that this amount corresponds to a 94 percent decrease compared to data from before the attacks.

The report notes that Israel has been using water as a "weapon of war" against Palestinians in violation of international law since the Oslo Accords were signed in 1993, and states that this situation "reached a brutal peak" starting from October 2023, when attacks on Gaza began.

Describing the impact of using water as a weapon against Gazans on public health as "catastrophic," the report conveys that cases of diseases resulting from water deprivation are increasing rapidly due to the health crisis caused by systematic destruction.

Pointing out that water production from sources across the entire Gaza Strip decreased by 84 percent as of May 26 due to the destruction of water infrastructure, the report includes the statement: "As of June 3, Gaza City has lost almost all of its water production capacity due to 88 percent of its water wells and all of its desalination plants being damaged or destroyed."

It was stated that Oxfam is calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian groups, and for Israel to end its siege on Gaza and lift the blockade, primarily to allow access to food, clean water, and hygiene supplies.

Since October 7, 2023, when it began its attacks on the Gaza Strip, Israel has been forcing Palestinians in Gaza to constantly move from one place to another as part of frequent evacuation threats.

According to UN data, 9 out of every 10 people in the Gaza Strip have been displaced due to Israeli attacks. Displaced Palestinians fleeing Israeli attacks are trying to hold on to life in primitive tents under difficult conditions in the areas where they have taken refuge.

In the attacks Israel has carried out on the Gaza Strip since October 7, at least 40,435 Palestinians, including 16,480 children and 10,980 women, have been killed, and 93,534 people have been injured. While it is reported that there are still thousands of dead under the rubble, civilian infrastructure is also being destroyed by targeting hospitals and educational institutions where the public has taken shelter.

News Source: AA