For Palestinians in Gaza, repeated displacement, damaged water networks, fuel shortages, and the collapse of sanitation systems have transformed water access into one of the Strip’s most urgent crises. By early 2024, water pumping and desalination systems serving Gaza City stopped functioning due to fuel shortages and widespread destruction of water infrastructure. With little access to clean water, Shallah has had to drink non-potable water, which can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. In April 2026, two water truck drivers were killed by Israeli fire while working at a water distribution point. For many Palestinians in Gaza, clean water is not guaranteed, and instead something for which they must constantly search.