Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza have released asbestos into the air, exposing the population to carcinogenic particles that will have deadly health consequences for decades.
Nils Adler reports for Al Jazeera.
In short:
- Gaza’s buildings contain asbestos, which becomes dangerous when dispersed in the air during bombing raids.
- Experts predict a rise in asbestos-related cancers like mesothelioma, similar to health impacts observed after 9/11 in New York.
- Gaza’s crowded conditions make it nearly impossible for residents to avoid exposure or seek safety from asbestos particles.
Key quote:
“[A]irborne concentrations [of asbestos] … will be enormously high, and that is guaranteed mesothelioma.”
— Roger Willey, asbestos expert
Why this matters:
Asbestos is highly carcinogenic, and Gaza’s population now faces a silent health crisis from airborne exposure. Even after the immediate conflict ends, the asbestos fallout will pose long-term health risks, contributing to future cancer and lung disease cases.
Related: Gaza's health crisis worsens as water, sewage systems fail
