In recent times, the Israel-Palestine conflict has had far-reaching consequences, many of which extend beyond widespread human death and destruction. While the international community often focuses on the losses of human life and property, there is still silence over the environmental impacts of the war in Gaza.
Gaza, traditionally enjoying a healthy Air Quality Index (AQI) due to the long-standing economic restrictions imposed by its neighbor Israel, which meant an almost absence of any pollution creating industries, or major vehicular pollution, is currently experiencing a concerning decline in its AQI. The constant bombardment and airstrikes raise concerns about not only public health and safety but also the environment. Rocket-launches, particularly, produce heat-trapping greenhouse gases like CO2 and release small pieces of soot and chemical called alumina into the stratosphere, which contribute to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
Moreover, with the recent restrictions on essential resources like food, water and fuel, the Gazans, who had been grappling with an already pressing water crisis, are being forced to resort to drastic measures. Gaza’s sole aquifer is becoming highly contaminated with sewage and seawater, rendering it undrinkable. According to this article, even the 10% water declared as drinkable often becomes mixed with poor-quality water making it suitable only for no-potable uses. The fuel crisis further exacerbates the situation, preventing water tankers from reaching the population via road, compelling citizens to rely on undrinkable water, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
In tandem with these water-related struggles, environmental threats loom large. Mounting garbage in the streets and makeshift shelters pose significant dangers as it seeps into the ground and further contaminates the already scarce water resources. Alongwith that the relentless bombardment has led to extensive destruction. With each building’s collapse, a thick layer of dust, particulates and smoke collects in the atmosphere, which not only poses a serious health hazard but also casts a looming shadow over the region’s standing crops and water bodies, exacerbating the already dire food security situation. Furthermore, the dead and decomposing bodies in the debris have raised few environmental concerns as decomposing corpses can leach nutrients from the soil, making it less fertile. As stated in this article, human bodies also contain microplastics and mercury from dental fillings, which further affect the soil and water quality, ultimately impacting agriculture, a vital component of Palestine’s economy.
However, the current environmental issues in Gaza extend far beyond air and water pollution.
According to Lama Faikh, director of Human RIghts Watch (HRW) for Middle East and North Africa, the use of white phosphorus in crowded areas poses a high risk of excruciating burns and life-long ailments. While the use of white phosphorus for legitimate military purposes, like making a smokescreen, is not banned under international law, using it in densely populated areas like Gaza raises significant environmental and clearly humanitarian concerns. Videos and experts have suggested that white phosphorus artillery is being employed in Gaza, but the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) denies any such accusations.
Recent studies also highlight a concerning relationship between increased conflict exposure and deteriorating health conditions for the Gazan residents. Living in areas more heavily impacted by conflict and thus, in extension, noise pollution, is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic diseases and physical impairments. Higher possibility of having high blood pressure is consistent with the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Animals, both pet and stray, have also been traumatized by the loud shelling and bombing. Alarmingly, even individuals who are not affected by the violence directly face a heightened probability of developing physical impairments due to challenges in accessing healthcare facilities caused by ongoing bombings.
The current Israel-Palestine conflict,particularly in the Gaza Strip, has not only led to tragic loss of life and infrastructure but has also left long-lasting environmental scars. These impacts have far-reaching implications for the public health, agriculture and the overall well-being of the population, making it imperative for the international community to address not just the immediate humanitarian crisis but also the long-term environmental challenges facing the region.
Comments