Gaza's Harsh Winter: A Fight for Survival
The winter season in Gaza has brought more than just cold weather. It has brought a harsh reality for many, especially children.
Children at High Risk
The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that ten children have lost their lives due to hypothermia since winter began. Just in the last day, a three-month-old baby died from the severe cold at Al Aqsa Martyrs hospital.
"Children are most affected because their bodies are not equipped to handle the cold like adults. They have less fat tissue, a larger surface area for heat loss, and low energy reserves. Premature and low birth weight infants are at the highest risk." — Dr. Ahmad Al Faraa, Head of Pediatrics at Nasser Medical Complex
Displacement and Harsh Conditions
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that hundreds of thousands of people are living in displacement sites. They are exposed to the cold and rainy winter conditions. Strong winds have damaged hundreds of tents in the last week alone.
A Severe Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is severe. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the main UN agency in the Palestinian territories, describes the situation:
- 92% of homes are damaged or destroyed.
- Massive quantities of unexploded bombs still need to be cleared.
Amid heavy winter rains, 24 people have been killed when their homes collapsed. Dr. Munir Al-Barsh, Director General of the Health Ministry, reports that bodies weakened by hunger, lack of medicines, and contaminated water have led to widespread disease outbreaks.
Malnutrition and Low Birth Weights
Malnutrition is a significant issue, especially among pregnant women. Dr. Al Faraa explains that most babies are born with low birth weights. This is due to:
- Mothers' malnutrition during pregnancy
- Anxiety and psychological stress
- Lack of prenatal care
- Lack of vitamins and nutritional supplements
Military Actions Continue
The Israeli military continues its actions against alleged militants along the Yellow Line, which divides Israeli-controlled areas from those controlled by Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces report that troops in the northern Gaza Strip killed several terrorists who had crossed the Yellow Line, planted an explosive device, and approached the troops.
