Gaza strip: A Palestinian environmental sciences professor has highlighted a rising threat posed by snakes and scorpions in displacement camps within the Gaza Strip. Abdel Fattah Abdel Rabou, from the Islamic University of Gaza, emphasized that displaced Palestinians are increasingly vulnerable to environmental hazards, which now include the presence of these creatures, in addition to the ongoing challenges of bombardment and shortages of essential supplies.
According to Anadolu Agency, Abdel Rabou's concerns come as most residents of the Gaza Strip continue to face displacement and harsh living conditions, exacerbated by the destruction linked to Israel's actions. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on August 14 that many displaced individuals live in inadequate shelters amid severe shortages of water and sanitation services, with waste accumulating perilously close to living areas.
The OCHA report highlighted that sewage or sludge was found within 10 meters of living spaces for 43% of assessed households, and 26% reported nearby piles of solid waste. On a recent Monday, Gaza's Government Media Office disclosed that 2.15 million displaced Palestinians were enduring dire humanitarian conditions, including over 800,000 residing in tents deemed unfit for human habitation.
Abdel Rabou attributes this phenomenon to significant environmental changes in Gaza due to widespread destruction. He explained that the rubble from destroyed infrastructure has created an ideal environment for snakes and scorpions, which have been driven from their natural habitats by the destruction. The UN Development Programme estimates that the conflict has led to approximately 61 million tons of rubble, presenting both environmental and humanitarian challenges.
The displacement camps, often set on open or agricultural land, create conditions conducive to the presence of these creatures. Accumulated waste attracts rodents and insects, which serve as a food source for snakes and scorpions. OCHA reported last July that rodent infestations and external parasites affected 83% of displacement sites due to waste accumulation and poor hygiene.
Rising summer temperatures further increase the activity of snakes and scorpions, which are drawn to these areas in search of food and shelter. Abdel Rabou noted that the lack of secure barriers at the base of many tents allows these creatures to enter living spaces, posing a significant risk, especially to children and the elderly.
The threat is compounded by a strained health system in Gaza. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reported on August 13 that despite a ceasefire, no health facility in Gaza had fully resumed operations, with the sector facing critical shortages of medicines, medical supplies, and personnel.
Abdel Rabou called for cleaning campaigns around the camps, waste removal, and increased public awareness on preventive measures. He also emphasized the need for medical resources to respond promptly to bites and stings, warning that the threat from snakes and scorpions is a growing public health concern, underscoring another dimension of the environmental consequences of the conflict in Gaza.