Baghdad: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned of the severe thirst that threatens Palestinians in the Gaza Strip with death, amid the collapse of water supply systems due to the Israeli bombing of infrastructure and the ban on fuel imports since last March.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, UNRWA said in a statement: “Palestinian families across Gaza are now threatened with death by thirst amid the collapse of water supply systems.”

The statement highlighted that only 40% of drinking water production facilities are still operating, placing Gaza on the brink of a man-made drought. UNRWA explained that its ability to provide water has declined to half the amount it provided during the truce period, due to the ongoing Israeli bombardment, forced displacement orders, and the occupation authorities’ ban on the entry of fuel into the Gaza Strip for more than 100 days.

The agency further elaborated that water wells have run out of fuel, are located in dangerous and difficult-to-access areas, and broken pipes are wasting water. Additionally, water tankers often do not arrive, exacerbating the dire situation.

UNRWA has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further deterioration of the living conditions for Palestinians in the region.