Israel replicating ‘Gaza playbook’ by destroying Lebanon water systems: Oxfam

2026-03-24 - 19:20

A leading humanitarian organization has charged that Israel is deploying the same strategy of targeting water infrastructure in Lebanon that it employed throughout its military campaign in Gaza. Oxfam revealed Tuesday that Israeli forces have damaged reservoirs, pipe networks, and pumping stations across the Bekaa region, cutting off clean water for nearly 7,000 people. The attacks occurred over just four days during the initial weeks of the latest escalation. A pattern of destruction According to Oxfam’s analysis, strikes have also targeted electricity networks and bridges, severing vital services for entire villages. The charity emphasized that under the Geneva Conventions, attacks on water installations and other infrastructure essential for civilian survival are prohibited, and the deliberate deprivation of water constitutes a method of warfare outlawed by international humanitarian law. “Any intentional deprivation of water or obstruction of aid may constitute a war crime,” Oxfam stated. Water as a weapon Bachir Ayoub, Oxfam’s country director in Lebanon, drew a direct parallel with Gaza. “It’s clear that the Israeli Forces are repeating the same pattern in Lebanon as they did in Gaza,” he said. “The impunity Israel enjoyed in Gaza as it committed water war crimes is again on full display.” Ayoub warned that the long-term consequences will be devastating for communities returning home to find no access to clean water. “The world has shown Israel can do what it wants, whenever it wants, without repercussion and again it is civilians who are paying the ultimate price for this inaction,” he added. Regional conflict and Türkiye’s stance The attacks on Lebanese infrastructure come amid a broader regional war that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran. Lebanese authorities report at least 1,039 people killed and 2,876 wounded since March 2. As neighboring nations face escalating violence, Türkiye has consistently condemned the targeting of civilian infrastructure and called for accountability under international law. Ankara continues to advocate for an immediate halt to hostilities, warning that the systematic destruction of essential services will only deepen the humanitarian crisis and prolong regional instability.