The Ongoing Environmental Destruction and Degradation of Gaza: The Resulting Public Health Crisis.

Abstract

This essay examines the resulting environmental health conditions in Gaza since October 2023. Evidence is drawn from international agency reports and peer-reviewed literature to document destruction and public health impacts over 18 months. Key themes include water, sanitation, contamination, noise and air pollution, food insecurity, susceptible populations, health system collapse, and trauma. Palestinians are beset with a public health crisis resulting from targeted environmental destruction. Water shortages and sewage contamination increase dehydration, famine, and disease. Air pollution from explosives and waste burning exposes residents to toxins. Waste management has collapsed, heightening disease outbreaks, including polio. Agricultural land is devastated, and food security is threatened with the aid blockade. Power grid destruction has crippled essential services. The health care system's collapse further exacerbates risks, especially for susceptible populations. In addition to mental and physical trauma, cultural and identity loss are immeasurable. The crisis in Gaza has severe and lasting consequences for health, the environment, and regional stability. An end to the bombardment, along with urgent humanitarian aid, release of all hostages, infrastructure rebuilding, and environmental remediation, are essential to mitigate long-term impacts. (Am J Public Health. 2025;115(7):1053-1061. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308140).