Post by : Badri Ariffin

Over the weekend, relentless winter rains inundated the Gaza Strip, leaving tent camps awash with ankle-deep water while families displaced by years of conflict grappled with the harsh elements. Many makeshift shelters, showing signs of war damage and prolonged use, succumbed under the weight of the downpour.

In Khan Younis, children navigated through flooded paths as families resorted to makeshift tools like shovels, tin cans, and even their hands to drain water from their tents. Residents shared tales of soaked bedding, mud-strewn homes, and overwhelming odors. “The tent was swept away. We’re at a loss as to what to do or where to turn,” expressed Majdoleen Tarabein, who fled from Rafah.

The severe winter has already claimed at least 12 lives, including a newborn, primarily due to hypothermia and structural collapses. Gaza’s Health Ministry has urged residents to stay clear of damaged buildings, yet much of the area lies in ruins. The UN estimated in July that close to 80% of structures in Gaza are either destroyed or significantly damaged.

Since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was established on October 10, 414 individuals in Gaza have died, and 1,142 have been injured. Overall, the war has caused a staggering 71,266 Palestinian fatalities.

Humanitarian Aid Falls Short of Requirements

The flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza has fallen short of the critical demands. Figures from the Israeli military indicate 4,200 trucks brought supplies last week, including tents, winter wear, and sanitation resources, but aid organizations claim these figures fall woefully short.

Since the commencement of the ceasefire, 72,000 tents and 403,000 tarps have reportedly been sent according to the Shelter Cluster. Philippe Lazzarini, the UN commissioner-general for Gaza, highlighted on social media, “People in Gaza exist in precarious, water-soaked tents amid rubble. Aid is not reaching the necessary levels.”

Ceasefire Developments at a Standstill

Progress on the ceasefire has stalled. Israel has indicated it will delay further phases until all hostages from the previous negotiations are accounted for, while Hamas contends that the destruction within Gaza complicates recovery efforts.

Key obstacles moving forward include deploying an international stabilization force, forming a technocratic government, disarming Hamas militants, and planning additional Israeli troop withdrawals. Both parties have accused each other of breaching the truce, creating a tense environment in the region.

#Global News