Palestinians Struggle with Winter Rains as Israel Halts Shelter Supplies to Gaza

Heavy winter rains hit Gaza, flooding the Muwasi tent camp, home to over 425,000 displaced Palestinians living in makeshift shelters for two years due to ongoing conflict. The flooding damaged personal belongings and highlighted the area’s inadequate drainage and infrastructure.

Despite efforts by residents to create trenches and purchase new tents, many of these tents leaked. With the infrastructure severely compromised, people sought refuge in abandoned buildings, although safety concerns loomed.

The Muwasi area, initially undeveloped dunes, was designated a humanitarian zone by the Israeli military during the war. While some winter supplies have been allowed into Gaza, aid organizations report these are insufficient to meet the needs of the displaced, particularly as temperatures drop.

The war began in October 2023 following an attack by Hamas-led militants on Israel, leading to significant casualties and extensive damage. The conflict has claimed over 69,000 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

In response to the crisis, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has called for the immediate entry of shelter materials into Gaza, emphasizing the urgency of adequate protection for families against harsh winter conditions.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini stressed the critical need for such supplies. However, Israel continues to block the entry of much-needed materials like tents and mobile homes, worsening the humanitarian situation.

The international community is increasingly calling for enhanced humanitarian aid and a lifting of restrictions to alleviate the suffering of those affected by both the ongoing conflict and the devastating winter weather in Gaza.