Bethlehem / PNN —

A new episode of *Aalamakshouf* examined the impact of the war on animals, livestock and the environment in the Gaza Strip, amid widespread destruction of farms and beekeeping facilities, shortages of medicines, vaccines and animal feed, and the resulting implications for food security and public health.

The episode, produced by Palestine News Network (PNN) and presented by journalist Sara Rizk, featured a report on the state of veterinary services in Gaza through the experience of veterinarian Moatasem Qaddoura, who continued treating animals despite severe shortages of medicines and medical supplies. In some cases, he was forced to perform surgical procedures at home using extremely limited resources.

Heavy losses to livestock

Dr Nail Qdeih, a member of the Higher Agricultural Emergency Committee in the southern governorates, said Gaza's livestock sector had suffered extensive losses as a result of direct attacks on farms and animals, compounded by restrictions on the entry of medicines, vaccines and animal feed.

He said data available up to November 2025 showed substantial losses across different types of livestock. Losses among cattle raised for meat and milk production reached about 99%, while sheep losses stood at around 80%, goats at about 67%, and poultry overall at approximately 89%.

Losses among broiler chickens reached about 99%, while losses among laying hens exceeded 72%. Bee colonies suffered estimated losses of between 90% and 95%, while infrastructure supporting the sector, including hatcheries and incubators, was also damaged.

Qdeih warned of the risks posed by the continued absence of vaccines and immunisation programmes, particularly given the presence of zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. He stressed that ensuring access to medicines and vaccines is a priority for protecting both animal and human health.

He noted that livestock is not only a source of food but also a vital source of income for large numbers of families. The loss of livestock has therefore affected food security and undermined the agricultural sector's ability to maintain local production.

Qdeih added that rehabilitating Gaza's livestock sector could take between one and five years on a gradual basis, provided the necessary resources become available and reconstruction begins.

A beehive survives the rubble

The episode also featured the story of a beekeeper in northern Gaza who managed to rescue a surviving hive found amid the rubble of his home.

The beekeeper began rebuilding his livelihood from the surviving colony despite losing most of his equipment and suffering a sharp decline in honey production.

Qdeih said beekeeping had been an important agricultural activity in Gaza, particularly in eastern and rural areas, and that the destruction of apiaries and bee colonies had caused significant losses to families whose livelihoods depended on beekeeping and honey production.

From Gaza to Bethlehem: A passion for ornamental birds

Another segment featured Dr Waleed Farrarjah, a physician and breeder of ornamental birds and pets, who spoke about his passion for raising birds since childhood.

Over the years, he developed his expertise and established a network of relationships with bird breeders in Palestine and abroad.

War threatens wildlife and biodiversity

On the environmental impact of the war, Imad Al-Atrash, executive director of the Wildlife Association, said destruction and pollution in Gaza had affected the air, water, soil and wildlife.

He warned that disruption to the ecological balance could have serious consequences, including an increase in rodent populations in some areas.

Al-Atrash stressed the need for a national plan to protect animals and livestock during wars and disasters, through cooperation between government bodies, civil society organizations and international institutions.

He said protecting animals is directly linked to protecting human health and food security.

The episode concluded by stressing that protecting animals, livestock and the environment is an integral part of protecting people, and that rebuilding the sector will require institutional support and a comprehensive strategy extending beyond individual efforts.

Watch the full episode of *Aalamakshouf* for more details.

This video was produced with financial support from CFI, Expertise France and the European Union. The content of this document is the sole responsibility of the beneficiary and does not in any way reflect the views of CFI, Expertise France or the European Union.**

To watch the full episode, click the link below.