Why Israel should protect, supply and rebuild water resources and infrastructure in the Gaza Strip: law, ethics and prudence

Abstract

This article seeks to detail what Israel owes the people who live in the Gaza Strip with respect to water. It also highlights the opportunity for Israeli security presented by the provision of reliable water resources and infrastructure to the Gaza Strip. I argue that continued provision of water is required by both international law and ethics; additionally, it is the most prudent policy choice. This was true before the terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023, during the armed conflict that followed, and will be true after the armed conflict ends. It also asserts that Israel’s actions that damage the water infrastructure of the Gaza Strip are legally restricted. Further, it is in Israel’s interest to build a sustainable water solution for the people of the Gaza Strip. Once that self-interest is realised and internalised, the demands of law and ethics may become politically possible as well. Realising that self-interest requires overcoming the powerful dehumanising discourse that is currently dominating ‘pro-Israel’ and ‘pro-Palestine’ communities, humanising action (such as the provision of water security) is the best way to overcome such dehumanising narratives.