Palestinian Foreign Ministry urges urgent aid to avert Gaza catastrophe
The ministry warned that winter rains and worn-out shelters could cause more deaths, especially among children, older people and patients.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry on Saturday called on the international community and UN agencies to take immediate, coordinated action to save lives in Gaza, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.
In a statement issued Saturday evening, the ministry warned that the crisis could become a far greater catastrophe, claiming more lives, particularly among children, older people and patients.
The ministry blamed continued Israeli attacks for worsening the humanitarian situation and blocking early recovery, and said the first rainfall in recent hours had exposed the harsh conditions facing displaced Palestinians.
The ministry estimated that nearly two million Palestinians are living in about 270,000 tents and displacement sites across Gaza, and said between 60% and 85% of those tents are worn out and unfit for use.
It added that more than 400,000 displaced people are in high-risk areas prone to flooding and rainwater buildup or near the coastline.
The ministry said the destruction of sewage networks and rainwater drainage systems was adding to these risks, while children, older people and patients lack winter clothing, blankets, mattresses and safe heating.
It urged the international community to go beyond humanitarian appeals and implement relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including resolutions 2720 and 2803, and to take concrete steps against Israeli violations.
The ministry called on pressure on Israel, which it described as the occupying power, to open all border crossings and allow unrestricted aid in quantities matching Gaza's needs.
It also called for urgent delivery of fuel and equipment to run water and sewage pumps, clear rainwater, and protect camps and shelters from flooding.
The ministry further asked for winter shelter supplies, including temporary housing, rain-resistant tents, plastic sheeting, insulation materials and tools to repair unsafe homes.
It urged an emergency health response with medicines, medical supplies, clean water and sterilization materials, along with measures to prevent diseases linked to contaminated water.
Finally, the ministry stressed the need to supply equipment to municipalities, civil defense teams and relief groups so they can carry out urgent work to protect civilians and displacement sites.
