The United Nations has reported that nearly all residents of the Gaza Strip, approximately 2 million people, will spend the winter without proper shelter. This comes as the Palestinian territory enters its fourth year under strict Israeli restrictions linked to the war. The harsh winter conditions are expected to exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
According to the International Organization for Migration, 1.8 million people in Gaza are facing a fourth winter without sufficient protection from rain, floods, and cold. The organization has called for international funding for humanitarian aid and urged Israel to ease restrictions on the entry of essential supplies. Despite a ceasefire negotiated in October, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians continue to live in tents or temporary shelters.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, with many residents living in substandard conditions. Over half of the tents and temporary shelters are in poor condition and in need of replacement. The organization warns that with limited alternatives, many families are forced to live in damaged buildings, posing a significant risk to their lives.
The International Organization for Migration highlighted a recent incident where 21 people, including 12 children, were killed when a six-story building damaged during the war collapsed in Gaza City last month. The organization's Director-General, Amy Pope, emphasized the need for urgent and regular delivery of shelter materials to Gaza.
The organization also warned that the El Niño climate phenomenon may increase rainfall in Gaza this winter, further weakening already vulnerable buildings and leaving residents exposed to floods due to severely damaged sewage networks. Pope stressed that currently available shelter supplies within humanitarian aid will only meet 17% of Gaza's specific winter needs.
Large numbers of tents, shelter kits, and other essential materials are reportedly available outside the Palestinian territory but are barred from entry. The World Health Organization previously warned in September that Gaza faces a new health crisis with the onset of the rainy season, which increases the risks of mosquito-borne diseases and outbreaks.
Israel faces growing international criticism over the situation in Gaza and the blockade on humanitarian aid, but maintains that it prevents the entry of materials that could be used for military purposes and accuses Hamas of planning new attacks.
Key points
- 1.8 million people in Gaza face a fourth winter without proper shelter.
- The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic despite a ceasefire.
- International funding and easing of Israeli restrictions are urged to address the crisis.
