Israel investigates troop-caused fire at Gaza’s Sheikh Aljin sewage plant during October 2025 withdrawal.

The Israel Defense Forces are investigating reports that Israeli troops set fire to the Sheikh Aljin sewage treatment plant in Gaza during their withdrawal in late October 2025, following a ceasefire agreement. Gaza’s Coastal Municipalities Water Utility confirmed that four of the plant’s six treatment towers were destroyed by fire, leaving it the last major facility serving central Gaza and Gaza City. Satellite imagery and NASA data detected the fire on October 11, and photos from the site show charred structures and Hebrew graffiti. Earlier satellite images suggest an IDF presence at the site, with signs of military fortifications, but the exact timing and responsibility remain unclear. The IDF acknowledged the incident and confirmed it is under review.