Harsh Winter Deepens Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis

 Standing barefoot in the mud with an empty container at a crowded water station in central Gaza, Alaa Al-Shawish searches desperately for clean water for her family. Displaced by relentless Israeli bombardment, her family now endures the perils of winter in a makeshift tent in Deir Al-Balah.

“We’re dying from the cold. This is not life,” Alaa says through tears. “No food, no water, no life.”

Lives Lost to Freezing Temperatures

Severe cold weather has claimed several lives in recent days, including at least five infants under a month old, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Among them was 20-day-old Jumaa, whose father, Yahya Al-Batran, mourned his son’s death.

“He froze. He died from the cold,” Yahya said, cradling his child's lifeless body at the hospital.

A 2-year-old child and a nurse were also among the victims, as temperatures in Gaza plummet to 10°C (50°F), compounded by wind and rain.

Flooding and Unbearable Conditions

Heavy rain has worsened the situation, flooding over 1,500 tents in areas like Al-Mawasi, Rafah, and central Gaza. Roads have turned into pools of water, soaking bedding and belongings in the flimsy shelters.

Hundreds of families have called for help as they battle flooded shelters and damaged tents. "We are suffering from the rain; we were flooded," said Salem Abu Amra, who struggles to keep his three children warm in their inadequate shelter.

UNRWA reported that more than 100 tents in Khan Younis were extensively damaged, and displaced Palestinians face mounting challenges as the rain continues.

Desperate Need for Supplies

The UN has called for increased humanitarian aid to address the dire conditions. Blankets, mattresses, and warm clothing remain stranded outside Gaza, awaiting approval to enter.

“More and regular humanitarian assistance must come into Gaza to help people stay warm this winter,” UNRWA urged.

However, aid is far below pre-war levels. Last week, only 1,290 humanitarian trucks entered Gaza—far fewer than the daily average of 500 trucks before the war began in October.

A Plea for Survival

For families like Alaa’s and Salem’s, the struggle is relentless. They face the dual threats of war and an unforgiving winter with inadequate shelter and supplies.

“We need proper tents, clothes, and supplies,” Salem pleads. “My children are freezing overnight. This is not living—it’s survival.”