In Gaza, “Winter is making everything worse and more complex”

As bad weather intensifies in Gaza, hundreds of thousands of people already in dire need of humanitarian support are now faced with further misery. 

Winter has brought heavy rain and flooding that has ravaged the makeshift shelters of thousands across Gaza. Flooding has increased the spread of infectious diseases amongst an already weakened population and dropping temperatures has resulted in the tragic death of eight newborn babies from hypothermia. 

Nebal Farsakh, Spokesperson, Palestine Red Crescent:  

“The suffering of Gaza’s residents continues to be extreme due to catastrophic conditions, as the aid entering remains insufficient despite the ceasefire agreement. With displaced people overcrowded in confined areas, hundreds of thousands of civilians are at risk of disease outbreaks. Winter is making everything worse and more complex. The Palestine Red Crescent Society are on the ground, as they have been for the last 15 months, helping people prepare, respond and recover from the challenges that winter brings, working tirelessly to support those most in need across Gaza.” 

Uma Hatim is currently displaced and living in a temporary camp in Gaza: 

“The cold is very, very bitter. It is the first time we have felt this bitter cold, just in these tents. It is beyond what you can imagine. For example, last night, from 1am when I prayed the night prayer until early hours in the morning, my feet were very cold, because there were no blankets or mattresses. We only had two blankets. I could not feel my feet at all, because of the cold, I am very honest with you. My elderly husband is suffering just like me.” 

Ahmed Matar, also living in the same camp, describes the current living conditions: 

“Frankly speaking, we say that if you are in a tent, it is as if you are sleeping in the street. Because the tent is just a piece of tarpaulin, this tarpaulin does not protect against the cold of winter, and we try to live with it, but unfortunately, we are not able to.” 

Hisham Abu Ghoul, Disaster Department Coordinator, Palestine Red Crescent Society: 

“The conditions where the tents are set are tragic. People suffer from the risks that follow with the winter season because the camps are not prepared or suitable to deal with that. 

“The Palestine Red Crescent Society are ready to face the risks that come with winter season. We try our hardest to take all the necessary measures to improve and enhance whatever is needed, but specially during the winter season.” 

END 

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