Hamas leader urges global aid for flood-hit Gaza

Heavy rains have caused widespread flooding in Gaza, affecting over 200,000 Palestinians and damaging shelters for 40,000 families, Turkey's state-run news agency Anadolu Agency reported.

The humanitarian crisis has prompted Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya to call for an emergency international relief effort to provide shelter, heating supplies, fuel, and equipment to repair damaged infrastructure.

Al-Hayya blamed Israeli restrictions on aid and reconstruction materials for exacerbating the crisis, which he said could no longer be treated as a temporary relief issue.

He demanded international pressure on Israel to fully implement a ceasefire agreement, including a complete withdrawal from Gaza and compliance with a humanitarian protocol.

The Hamas leader also urged unrestricted access for UN agencies and humanitarian organizations, as well as entry for a Palestinian national committee tasked with administering the territory.

Relief Efforts

Al-Hayya's appeal included calls for funding to provide safe shelters, repair infrastructure, and support reconstruction efforts, and he urged the UN Security Council to convene an emergency public meeting to address the crisis.

He contacted officials from countries mediating the ceasefire over the previous two days to press for urgent relief and implementation of the agreement.

Background

Gaza has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a long-standing blockade and repeated conflicts with Israel.

The territory's infrastructure and economy have been severely impacted, leaving it vulnerable to humanitarian crises like the current flooding.