Severe Weather Damages Displacement Tents in Gaza
In a devastating turn of events, over 10,000 displacement tents in the Mawasi area of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip, have been severely damaged and flooded due to a recent low-pressure weather system that brought heavy rain and strong winds. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported that many of these tents, which provide shelter for displaced individuals, were either blown away or rendered unusable.
Mahmoud Basal, a spokesman for the Civil Defense in Gaza, confirmed that the majority of the tents housing displaced families have suffered significant damage. This situation has forced many residents to relocate their tents to safer areas, away from the beach, under extremely harsh conditions.
Bashar Murad, Director of Health Programs at Al-Quds Hospital, highlighted the dire health implications of this disaster. He noted that many displaced individuals, particularly the elderly and children, are experiencing various chest diseases due to the cold weather and lack of adequate winter clothing, heating devices, and blankets. The ongoing blockade has exacerbated these conditions, as the entry of relief aid remains restricted, leading to rising prices and widespread famine in the region.
The Gaza Strip's government media office has issued an urgent humanitarian appeal to the international community, urging immediate assistance for the hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals facing life-threatening conditions. They reported that approximately 81% of the tents have become unusable, according to a recent field assessment.
The situation is further complicated by the Israeli military's prevention of the entry of 250,000 tents and mobile homes into Gaza, which is critical for addressing the humanitarian crisis. The government has called for immediate action from international organizations and countries worldwide to avert a worsening disaster.
