Empowering Resilience through Strategic Water Investments for Palestine

For decades, Palestine’s water sector has suffered under restrictive Israeli policies, which have been compounded by nearly two years of aggression in Gaza and ongoing escalations in the West Bank. Israel’s control over water resources and infrastructure, coupled with the use of water as a tool of collective punishment, has driven the crisis to unprecedented levels. Gaza now faces the near-total collapse of water systems, while the West Bank continues to struggle with restricted access, deteriorating infrastructure, and blocked development. Recent military incursions in areas such as Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tubas have further devastated already fragile WASH services. This session highlights the urgent need for strategic investment and regional cooperation, drawing inspiration from historic models like the Marshall Plan. A proposed Palestinian Recovery Program would focus on rebuilding infrastructure, empowering resilience, and upholding human dignity through three tracks: humanitarian aid and institutional reform, recovery programming for Gaza, and innovative investment modalities adapted to Palestine’s unique challenges. By mobilizing diverse donors and financial instruments, the program aims to unlock partnerships and accelerate water sector recovery. Key priorities include decentralized solutions, desalination, and forward-looking recovery plans that reduce dependency on Israeli sources and revitalize water services for Palestinians.