UAE Restores Water Networks in Northern Gaza

Operation “Chivalrous Knight 3” has begun the restoration of damaged and destroyed water infrastructure in northern Gaza. This initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Gaza Municipality and is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to provide urgent humanitarian aid and funding.

The operation focuses on repairing and reactivating water networks, wells, and reservoirs that have been significantly affected. The project addresses the severe impact on water facilities, including the destruction of 60 wells, inoperative desalination plants, damaged main water networks, and widespread water contamination leading to critical shortages.

The UAE’s aim is to restore water access to densely populated areas, reduce pollution, and create a healthier environment. By funding repairs to water lines and maintaining parts of the water supply networks, the initiative seeks to alleviate the daily struggles of Gaza’s residents in obtaining clean water.

Previously, under the same operation, the UAE repaired wells and water tanks in Khan Younis, helping the municipality manage a crisis caused by damaged water networks. Additionally, the UAE has established six desalination plants in Rafah, Egypt, with a total capacity of 1.2 million gallons per day, providing water to over 600,000 people in Gaza. To date, 130 million gallons have been delivered.

Operation “Chivalrous Knight 3” also involves supplying water and humanitarian aid to displaced families across various areas of Gaza, addressing the urgent needs of thousands affected by the ongoing crisis.

The relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the Gaza Strip has evolved significantly over the years, marked by various humanitarian, political, and diplomatic interactions. As a regional power with considerable resources, the UAE has played a notable role in addressing the humanitarian needs of Gaza while navigating the complex political landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

One of the most visible aspects of UAE-Gaza relations is the UAE’s extensive humanitarian aid efforts. The UAE has consistently been a significant donor in the region, providing financial assistance and resources for various humanitarian projects.
Humanitarian Aid and Relief Efforts: The UAE has funded numerous initiatives to address critical needs in Gaza, including emergency relief for displaced families, infrastructure repair, and healthcare support. Notable operations, such as “Chivalrous Knight 3,” aim to restore damaged water infrastructure and provide essential services to affected areas.

Desalination Plants and Water Projects: The UAE has established desalination plants in neighboring regions like Rafah, Egypt, to alleviate water shortages in Gaza. These plants contribute millions of gallons of water daily, directly benefiting hundreds of thousands of Gazans.
Reconstruction and Infrastructure: The UAE has funded the repair of critical infrastructure, including water wells, hospitals, and schools, helping to rebuild communities affected by conflict and natural disasters.

The UAE’s involvement in Gaza also extends to political and diplomatic dimensions, reflecting its broader foreign policy objectives in the Middle East.
Diplomatic Relations with Palestinian Authority: The UAE has historically supported the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its initiatives for peace and state-building. This support includes backing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocating for Palestinian rights on international platforms.