Authors : Saleh A. El-Taweel; Mohammad S. El-Kateeb; Asaad I. Al-Falit

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yk8eatr7

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1728

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Abstract : Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, yet it remains critically compromised in conflict zones such as the Gaza Strip. This study provides a quantitative assessment of the microbiological and chemical quality of drinking water in southern Gaza—specifically the Khan Younis and Middle Area governorates—during the period of active military conflict between December 2023 and May 2025. A total of 1116 water samples were collected from various public and health facilities and analyzed based on treatment status and facility type. Water quality was assessed using standard APHA methods, targeting key parameters: Fecal Coliforms, Escherichia coli, Free Residual Chlorine, Salinity, and pH. Statistical analyses, including One-Way ANOVA and correlation testing, revealed significant microbiological contamination—particularly in untreated water sources, where Fecal Coliforms and E. coli exceeded WHO limits. Desalinated and treated sources consistently exhibited better quality; however, residual chlorine levels were suboptimal across both categories (mean = 0.23 mg/L in treated water), indicating insufficient disinfection. Salinity levels in groundwater wells reached critical levels (mean = 2897.71 mg/L), reflecting chronic seawater intrusion. Correlation analysis confirmed a strong positive relationship between salinity and pH (r = 0.63) and a negative correlation between chlorine levels and microbial indicators, suggesting that disinfection failure contributes directly to health risks. Findings underscore the urgent need to protect water infrastructure, ensure continuous chlorination, and enhance emergency WASH services in conflict-affected settings. This study contributes to the global understanding of water insecurity during armed conflict and provides evidence to support humanitarian response planning and international legal advocacy.

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