New plague in the Gaza Envelope: Council considers spraying also beyond the fence

An unusual rodent infestation is spreading in communities near the Gaza border, particularly close to the security fence. Residents report mice and rats entering homes. The Eshkol Regional Council is intensifying chemical and biological pest control, including placing 200 new barn owl nest boxes. Spraying on both sides of the fence is being considered in coordination with security forces.

An unusual rodent infestation has been spreading in recent months in communities near the Gaza border, especially in areas adjacent to the security fence. Residents report mice, rats, and other rodents entering homes, institutions, and agricultural areas. The first reports were received in July at Kibbutz Sufa and spread to other communities in the southern Eshkol Regional Council. The council is operating on several fronts: chemical pest control in open areas and communities, use of drones, and placement of about 200 new barn owl nest boxes for biological control. Simultaneously, the council is working with the Ministry of Defense, the Operations Directorate, and the Southern Command to authorize spraying on both sides of the border. One assessment links the phenomenon to climatic conditions and last winter's rains. A resident described damage to her home and a case where she was bitten while sleeping. The council reported an "unusual increase in the rodent population" and that the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Ministry of Health, and the IDF have been recruited to the effort. As of now, no unusual health risk to residents has been identified.