Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has also led to a growing public health catastrophe as disease spreads due to contaminated water supplies, the buildup of untreated sewage and the lack of medical care. Some Israeli officials have openly praised the spread of diseases in Gaza. In November, retired Major General Giora Eiland — who still advises Israel’s defense minister — wrote, “Severe epidemics in the south of the Gaza Strip will bring victory closer.” The public health crisis in Gaza is also impacting Israeli soldiers. The Times of Israel reports one soldier died after being infected by a harmful fungus in Gaza. At least 10 other Israeli troops were infected after being exposed to soil contaminated with sewage waste. Meanwhile, three more Israeli soldiers have died in Gaza. One hundred fifty-four Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its ground invasion.