The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to severe environmental degradation, with significant impacts on soil, water, and air quality, according to a new report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The war between Israel and Hamas has not only halted but reversed progress on environmental initiatives within the region.
The UNEP’s preliminary assessment, initiated at the request of the Palestinian Environment Quality Authority, reveals that explosive weapons have produced approximately 39 million tons of debris, equating to over 107 kilograms per square meter throughout Gaza. This figure starkly surpasses the debris levels from the battle for Mosul, Iraq, in 2017 by more than five times.
The destruction has been compounded by the long-term challenges already faced by Gaza due to recurring conflicts, rapid urban growth, and high population density. Prior to the latest conflict, over 92% of water in Gaza was deemed unfit for human consumption, a situation now likely worsened by the current conditions.