Children among over 700 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire while collecting water in Gaza, local authorities say

Gaza City (Web Desk): Over 700 Palestinians—most of them children—have reportedly been killed by Israeli gunfire while attempting to collect water in Gaza since October 2023, according to a statement released Monday by the territory’s media office.

Officials in Gaza allege that the Israeli military is carrying out a coordinated effort to deny the population access to water, describing the campaign as a deliberate tactic that violates international humanitarian standards.

The statement highlights what authorities call a “deliberate war of thirst,” accusing Israeli forces of systematically targeting civilians in need of water.

It claims that more than 112 deadly assaults have occurred at water-collection sites, resulting in the deaths of hundreds, with children making up the majority of the victims.

Just a day prior to the release of this report, at least 12 people—including eight minors—were killed in an attack on a water line in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, further intensifying concerns about the military’s approach to civilian needs.

The Gaza media office also reports widespread destruction of critical water infrastructure, stating that Israeli forces have dismantled more than 720 water wells.

As a result, approximately 1.25 million residents have been left without reliable access to clean drinking water. This, combined with ongoing fuel shortages, has severely compromised public health and sanitation systems.

According to the same report, Israel has prevented the entry of roughly 12 million liters of fuel each month—an amount deemed necessary to maintain minimal operations of water systems, sewage facilities, waste removal, and other essential public services.

Officials warn that this blockade has paralyzed the region’s infrastructure and fueled the spread of disease, especially among children, due to the collapse of water and sanitation networks.

Calling for urgent global intervention, Gaza’s authorities urge human rights groups and the international community to address what they characterize as the use of water deprivation as a tool of warfare.

They emphasize the need to lift the blockade and permit deliveries of fuel and equipment necessary for restoring water wells and sewage operations.

Since March 2, Israel has reportedly closed off all border crossings to humanitarian supplies, including food and medicine, worsening the already critical conditions in Gaza, where over two million people are struggling to survive. 
This has led to famine-like scenarios, with growing reports of deaths related to starvation and dehydration.

Meanwhile, international legal bodies are examining Israel's actions. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing potential war crimes and crimes against humanity.

It is pertinent to mention that Israel is facing proceedings at the International Court of Justice over allegations of genocide in its military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in more than 58,000 Palestinian deaths—primarily women and children—since last October.