In a remarkable humanitarian step, the United Arab Emirates announced the commencement of the largest desalinated water supply project from Egypt to southern Gaza. This project is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to meet the essential needs of the region, addressing the worsening water crisis that poses a serious threat to the lives of many residents in Gaza.
Project Details and Components
During a press conference held at the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility headquarters in Deir al-Balah, the establishment of a 6.7-kilometer water transport line with a diameter of 315 mm was announced. This line connects the desalination plant built by the UAE on the Egyptian side to the displacement area extending between the Khan Younis and Rafah governorates. The project aims to supply approximately 600,000 affected residents with 15 liters of desalinated water daily, amidst the destruction of more than 80% of water facilities in Gaza.
Affirmation of UAE Support
In a statement, Sharif Al-Nayreb, the media spokesperson for Operation “Gallant Knight 3,” confirmed that “the new water line project is not merely an emergency response to the water crisis in Gaza, but an extension of a steadfast Emirati approach to support the Palestinian people.” He noted that the UAE continues to enhance these efforts through multiple projects, including the establishment of desalination plants, provision of water tanks, drilling of wells, and maintenance of networks, contributing to improving the water situation in the sector.
Appreciation for UAE’s Role in Relief Efforts
Engineer Omar Shatat, Deputy General Director of the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility for Technical Affairs, expressed the gratitude of the Palestinian people to the UAE, which has supported them since the first day of the war. He confirmed that these major projects have facilitated the municipalities’ tasks and ensured water access while improving essential services under difficult conditions. Khalil Abu Shamala, a representative of civil society in Gaza, also praised the UAE’s efforts, which provide residents with a genuine opportunity to access safe and healthy water, thereby enhancing their ability to withstand ongoing challenges and crises.
This project is part of a series of initiatives launched by Operation “Gallant Knight 3” to address the repercussions of the infrastructure collapse in the Gaza Strip and reflects the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian support and improving the living conditions of the population. Clearly, this effort represents a fundamental step towards providing desalinated water as one of the necessary solutions to confront the escalating water crisis.