News|Israel-Palestine conflictUnexploded Israeli bombs threaten lives as Gaza clears debris, finds bodiesIsrael restricts heavy machinery but allows Red Cross and Egyptian teams to enter Gaza to search for captives’ remains.
Efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure in Gaza City face significant challenges due to restrictions on the entry of heavy machinery. According to the city's mayor, tens of thousands of tonnes of unexploded ordnance pose a substantial risk across the…
Efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure in Gaza City face significant challenges due to restrictions on the entry of heavy machinery. According to the city's mayor, tens of thousands of tonnes of unexploded ordnance pose a substantial risk across the Gaza Strip.
On Sunday, Mayor Yahya al-Sarraj stated that Gaza City requires at least 250 heavy vehicles and 1,000 tonnes of cement to maintain water networks and construct wells.
Reports indicate that only six trucks have entered the territory. The prioritization of resources has focused on recovering the remains of Israeli captives, impacting efforts to locate Palestinians trapped beneath rubble.
The Red Cross and Egyptian teams have been permitted to work beyond the ceasefire’s designated lines to search for captives’ remains. This access is part of ongoing negotiations and operational decisions involving various parties.
Political Control and Security Measures
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel's control over which foreign forces may operate in Gaza. He emphasized that Israel controls its own security and will decide which forces are acceptable.
Efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure in Gaza City face significant challenges due to restrictions on the entry of heavy machinery.
The presence of unexploded ordnance continues to delay reconstruction efforts. Nicholas Torbet, Middle East director at HALO Trust, highlighted the challenges of clearing explosives in densely populated areas. The approach involves using small amounts of explosives to neutralize bombs safely.
Unexploded ordnance poses a severe threat to the population, with reports of injuries caused by mistaken handling of explosive devices. The Palestinian Civil Defence estimates that 200,000 tonnes of explosives were dropped, with a significant portion failing to detonate.
Dr. Harriet, an emergency doctor, described the situation as a public health crisis. Children are particularly at risk, mistaking explosives for toys, leading to tragic accidents. The United Nations Mine Action Service reported 328 casualties related to unexploded ordnance since October 2023.
Efforts to clear the explosives are expected to take years and require significant financial investment.
The local population is pressing for faster progress in reconstruction and freedom of movement. The urgency of these efforts is underscored by the ongoing risks and the need for stability and safety in the region.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
