Assessment of Water Balance Dynamics and Resource Stress in the Gaza Strip, Palestine

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing global challenges, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. In this context, the Gaza Strip, where groundwater is the only available natural water resource, faces severe water stress due to overexploitation and drought conditions. This study aimed to review the recent water budget for the Gaza Strip by collecting data for the years (2021-2022) which was analyzed, discussed, and compared with other studies. The results showed a sharp deterioration in the Gaza Strip in terms of quantity and quality. The value of recharge elements amounted to 109 million m<sup>3</sup>. In comparison, the withdrawal was estimated at 242 million m<sup>3</sup>, with an increase of approximately (220%) to the recharge, half of which was 122 million m<sup>3</sup> for agricultural consumption. In contrast, the general water deficit was recorded at 133 million m<sup>3</sup>. The results also showed that the permissible standards for salinity, Total Dissolved Salts, and nitrates were exceeded. Studying the water balance of the Gaza Strip supports the decision of policymakers to take adequate measures to reduce water depletion and protect the rights of future generations.