The head of water and sanitation programs for the United Nations in the Gaza Strip has warned that extensive infrastructure destruction and ongoing restrictions imposed by Israel are severely limiting the effectiveness of Canadian-funded humanitarian assistance intended to restore access to clean water.
According to the UN official, damage to pipelines, pumping stations, treatment facilities, and other essential infrastructure has significantly reduced the impact of aid projects financed by Canada and other international donors. The official said that despite continued financial support, repeated destruction and limited access to affected areas have made it difficult to deliver lasting improvements to Gaza’s water system.
The warning comes as humanitarian organizations continue to report worsening living conditions across Gaza, where millions of residents face shortages of clean drinking water, sanitation services, electricity, food, and medical care.
UN representatives stressed that rebuilding water infrastructure requires not only financial assistance but also sustained access for humanitarian workers, construction materials, equipment, and maintenance crews. Without these conditions, they argue, international aid risks becoming less effective over time.
Israeli authorities have maintained that military operations are aimed at addressing security threats and have stated that humanitarian assistance is being facilitated where operational conditions allow. Israeli officials have also argued that restrictions are necessary to prevent materials from being diverted for militant purposes.
Canada has remained one of several international donors supporting humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza, contributing funding for emergency water, sanitation, healthcare, and food assistance programs. Canadian officials have repeatedly called for improved humanitarian access while emphasizing the need to protect civilians during the conflict.
Humanitarian agencies continue to urge all parties to comply with international humanitarian law and ensure that civilians have reliable access to essential services, including safe drinking water and sanitation.
The United Nations has warned that restoring Gaza’s damaged water infrastructure will require sustained international cooperation, secure humanitarian access, and long-term reconstruction efforts as the humanitarian crisis continues.
Swifteradio.com