Gaza:The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has issued an urgent plea for international intervention to avert a looming humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip. The ministry called upon the global community, the United Nations, its specialized agencies, and international humanitarian organizations to take immediate action to address the dire humanitarian and environmental crisis exacerbated by the onset of winter.
According to Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA – English, the ministry's statement, released on Saturday evening, highlighted the potential escalation of the crisis into a greater catastrophe, particularly threatening the lives of children, the elderly, and patients. The ongoing Israeli aggression and genocide in Gaza have severely worsened the humanitarian situation, obstructing early recovery efforts. The recent rainfall has further exposed the harsh conditions faced by nearly two million Palestinians displaced across the territory.
The ministry reported that approximately 270,000 tents and displacement sites are currently housing these displaced individuals. Alarmingly, between 60% and 85% of the tents are in poor condition, unfit for use after years of continued displacement and conflict. Over 400,000 displaced Palestinians are living in high-risk areas prone to flooding and rainwater accumulation, or close to the coastline, increasing their vulnerability.
The destruction of critical infrastructure, including sewage networks and rainwater drainage systems, is intensifying the risks faced by the population. Electricity outages and fuel shortages have left many without adequate protection against the severe cold and rainfall, with essential items like winter clothing, blankets, and safe heating in short supply for vulnerable groups.
The ministry emphasized the need for international efforts to go beyond mere humanitarian appeals and urged for the implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions, such as resolutions 2720 and 2803, to address Israeli violations. It called for immediate pressure on Israel to open all border crossings and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid proportionate to the immense needs of Gaza's population.
Furthermore, the ministry requested the urgent entry of fuel and equipment necessary for operating water and sewage pumps, as well as executing emergency interventions to prevent flooding in displacement camps. It stressed the importance of providing winter shelter materials, including temporary housing, rain-resistant tents, and other essential supplies, to protect the displaced population from the harsh winter conditions.
Additionally, the ministry called for an emergency health and preventive response, advocating for the provision of medicines, medical supplies, clean water, and sterilization materials, alongside enhanced healthcare services to combat diseases linked to water contamination. It also highlighted the need to support local authorities and relief organizations with logistical and technical resources to carry out urgent interventions and safeguard civilians and displacement sites.