Gaza transportation sector faces collapse due to spare parts blockade

The Gaza Centre for Human Rights has warned of a potential total collapse of the transportation sector in the Gaza Strip. This crisis is driven by the ongoing blockade and the restriction of essential mechanical supplies, including spare parts, engine oils, tires, and maintenance tools, which are being classified as “dual-use items.”

Official data indicates that approximately 70% of civilian vehicles are now partially or fully out of service. The direct economic losses to the transportation sector are estimated at roughly $2.8 billion. The shortage of technical supplies threatens critical infrastructure, including hospitals, water wells, bakeries, and aid trucks.

Emergency services are particularly affected. Reports state that 211 ambulances and 23 civil defense vehicles have been compromised by attacks or mechanical failure due to worn engines and lack of original oils. Furthermore, the scarcity of goods has caused unprecedented price spikes, with some engine oil containers reportedly reaching costs of $3,500. The crisis also threatens to halt water desalination plants and sewage pumps, potentially leading to an environmental catastrophe.