Winter Struggles in Gaza: Displaced Families Face Harsh Conditions

As winter rains sweep through Gaza, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians are grappling with the aftermath of two years of conflict. With much of the region’s infrastructure destroyed, makeshift tents are now the only refuge for many families.

The Impact of Winter Weather

A polar low-pressure system brought heavy rain and strong winds to Gaza on Saturday, marking the third such weather event this winter. Meteorologist Laith al-Allami indicated that another low-pressure system is expected to hit by Monday, potentially worsening the already critical conditions.

Living in Tents

Many families have been residing in tents since late 2023 due to the prolonged conflict. With temperatures dropping and warnings of an impending storm, they face harsh challenges. Mohammed Maslah, who has taken shelter in a tent in Gaza City, expressed his helplessness. “I could not find anywhere to live in Gaza, except Gaza Port,” he lamented. “My home is under Israeli control, and we get soaked after just a few hours of rain.”

Struggles for Basic Needs

In Deir al-Balah, mother Shaima Wadi, displaced from Jabaliya, shared her plight. “We have been living in this tent for two years. Every time it rains, our tent collapses, and we struggle to prop it up with wood,” she recounted. Financial constraints make it nearly impossible for families to secure basic necessities like clothes and mattresses.

Severe Consequences of Heavy Rains

This month, heavy rains flooded countless tents, adding to the suffering in a region where many buildings are either destroyed or severely damaged. Reports indicate that at least 15 people, including three infants, have succumbed to hypothermia due to the cold and rain, highlighting the desperate need for humanitarian assistance. Aid organizations urge the necessity for more shelters and support in the area.

Efforts to Provide Relief

Ibrahim Abu al-Reesh, who oversees field operations for Civil Defence in Gaza Port, discussed the ongoing efforts to address the deteriorating conditions. “We are working hard to cover dampened tents with plastic sheeting,” he stated, as aid teams respond to distress calls in the affected areas.

The Continuing Crisis

As Al Jazeera correspondent Ibrahim Al Khalili reported from Gaza City, the winter season compounds the existing challenges. “Each rainfalls fills the neighborhoods with muddy water, intensifying the misery for thousands of displaced individuals,” he noted.

Ongoing Ceasefire Negotiations

Amidst these dire conditions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is anticipated to visit Washington, D.C., while discussions unfold concerning the next phase of a ceasefire that commenced on October 10. However, the peace process faces substantial hurdles, including the arrangement of an international stabilization force and potential disarmament of Hamas.

Casualties and Continued Violence

Despite the ceasefire taking effect, violence has continued, leading to the death of over 414 Palestinians and injuring 1,142 others since its initiation. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports a total death toll of at least 71,266, along with 171,219 additional injuries since the onset of conflict.

Conclusion

The challenges faced by displaced Palestinians in Gaza this winter serve as a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis. With many families living in vulnerable conditions, there remains a pressing need for increased support and intervention.

• Tens of thousands of Palestinians are living in tents amid harsh winter conditions.
• Heavy rain and strong winds have resulted in flooded shelters and increased suffering.
• Significant casualties continue, even amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
• The need for humanitarian aid and shelter remains urgent in Gaza.