Recent reports have revealed that Israel is set to activate a desalination plant in the Gaza Strip to enhance fresh water availability in the region. The move comes as the United Nations considers suspending aid operations across Gaza.
An Israeli security official disclosed that Israel intends to boost the electricity supply to the desalination facility located in Khan Yunis by constructing new power lines. This initiative aims to revitalize the facility, established with UNICEF funding in 2017, to provide clean drinking water to residents in Deir al-Balah, Khan Yunis, and the Mawasi area.
Upon final approval, the plant is expected to deliver around 20,000 cubic meters of water daily, a significant increase from its current capacity of 1,500 cubic meters. The official attributed the current limitations to insufficient generator activity.
The proposed power line will facilitate the necessary 5 megawatts of electricity, to be supplied by Israel. Additionally, the Israeli military will permit international organizations and NGOs to bring in equipment and conduct infrastructure enhancements to ensure the plant's smooth operation following a security inspection.
While details on the project's cost and potential expansion of desalination plants remain undisclosed, the official emphasized that the Khan Yunis facility is the largest in the region.
Israel Defense Forces and Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories will collaborate to lay the additional power lines and ensure security for uninterrupted plant operation.
Meanwhile, the U.N. has cautioned Israel about the need for better protection of humanitarian workers in Gaza. Discussions are ongoing to address these concerns and prevent a suspension of aid operations.
U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted the challenging conditions faced by aid workers in Gaza but affirmed the organization's commitment to supporting the local population.
