The quality of seawater off the coast of the Gaza Strip has notably improved this year, with pollution at its lowest rate in years, officials say.  

Internationally backed sewage treatment facilities along the coast have improved their operations.  

The result is crystal-blue, safe, swimmable waters and sand and air that smells salty and pleasant. 

Beachgoers in Gaza are enjoying time on the waters edge, with limited red-flag markers warning of contaminated waters.

Close to 65 percent of the beach in Gaza is safe and clean, the Hamas-run Environment Quality and Water Authority said.

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