A severe fuel shortage in the Gaza Strip has forced hospitals to suspend services and crippled water-pumping stations [1, 2].
This collapse of basic infrastructure threatens to trigger widespread epidemics as sewage systems fail and access to clean drinking water drops. The lack of energy prevents life-saving medical equipment from operating and stops the distribution of potable water to displaced populations.
Ismail al-Thawabta, Director General of the Government Media Office in Gaza, said the crisis has severely impacted central and southern Gaza [1]. The shortages have specifically hit the Nuseirat refugee camp, where Al-Awda Hospital has struggled to maintain operations [1, 2].
Water infrastructure has faced both energy failures and physical destruction. More than 30 water wells have been destroyed across the territory [4]. This loss of physical assets, combined with the inability to power remaining pumps, has created a sharp decline in water availability [2].
UNRWA reported fuel exhaustion as early as Nov. 13, 2023 [3]. Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said the lack of fuel prevents the agency from maintaining essential services for refugees [3].
Border-crossing closures and a continuing blockade have cut off the import of fuel [1, 3]. Damage from the ongoing conflict has further limited the ability of technicians to repair damaged pumping stations and electrical grids [1].
“A severe fuel shortage in the Gaza Strip has forced hospitals to suspend services.”
The intersection of fuel scarcity and physical infrastructure damage creates a compounding humanitarian crisis. When hospitals lose power and sewage systems fail simultaneously, the risk of waterborne diseases increases, placing further strain on a medical system that is already unable to function due to the same energy deficit.
