In a compelling discussion, Claudine Ebeid, Executive Producer of Atlantic Audio, shares her insights on Gaza's water crisis with a focus on water engineer Marwan Bardawil's harrowing journey as a refugee. They delve into how the cease-fire has altered water access and the psychological toll of displacement on families. The conversation highlights the dire conditions facing water infrastructure in Gaza, the health implications of contaminated supplies, and the persistent resilience of those dedicated to rebuilding amidst chaos.
The cease-fire has drastically affected water access in Gaza, compounding the humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict and displacement.
Marwan Bardawil's journey underscores the resilience of Gazans in seeking solutions to restore their water infrastructure despite severe challenges.
Deep dives
Tromphia's Role in Managing Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms
Tromphia is a prescription medication designed to help adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis manage their symptoms effectively. Clinical studies have shown that many patients taking Tromphia achieved clinical remission within a year, with some even reaching endoscopic remission. However, individual results may vary, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment plans. Patients are urged to consult their doctors to determine if Tromphia is a suitable option, especially considering potential side effects such as allergic reactions and increased infection risks.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has severely impacted the daily lives of its residents, with a significant humanitarian crisis unfolding. With power cut-offs affecting two million people, access to clean water has become increasingly scarce, complicating the survival of residents in the area. Water engineer Marwan Bardawil, whose career has focused on providing access to water, highlights the desperation of the situation as many Gazans face the loss of both their homes and basic necessities like clean water. This illustrates the broader struggle for survival amidst the chaos of war and political instability.
Marwan's Journey and the Future of Water in Gaza
Marwan Bardawil’s decision to leave Gaza for Egypt reflects the dire circumstances faced by many Palestinians due to the ongoing conflict. Despite being a skilled water engineer who has dedicated decades to rebuilding Gaza’s water infrastructure, the escalating violence and destruction compelled him to prioritize his family’s safety. Before the war, Gaza's water system was already under strain, delivering insufficient supplies to residents, which has only worsened as infrastructure deteriorated further. As various plans for rebuilding emerge, Marwan’s experience embodies the determination of Gazans to restore their homeland, despite the overwhelming challenges they face.
How has the cease-fire changed water access in Gaza? And what does it mean when the people in charge of keeping the water flowing are displaced? Host Hanna Rosin talks with Claudine Ebeid, The Atlantic’s executive producer of audio, who reports on her visit with water worker Marwan Bardawil, who is now a Gazan refugee living in Egypt.
Read more about Marwan Bardawil’s journey: https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/02/gaza-needs-clean-water/681583/
Listen to our previous Radio Atlantic episode with Marwan: https://www.theatlantic.com/podcasts/archive/2023/11/the-man-working-to-keep-the-water-on-in-gaza/675877/
Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you subscribe. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to Pulitzer-winning journalism, from clear-eyed analysis and insight on breaking news to fascinating explorations of our world. Subscribe today at TheAtlantic.com/podsub.