Local authorities in the Gaza Strip are urgently calling for international aid to provide tents and temporary shelters for thousands of families left homeless by the recent conflict with Israel. The Gaza Government Media Office reported that many families are currently sleeping outdoors in freezing temperatures, highlighting the critical need for immediate humanitarian assistance.
In a statement released on Monday, officials emphasized that securing shelters for displaced individuals is the most pressing humanitarian requirement at this time. They appealed to the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation to prioritize the inclusion of tents in upcoming aid shipments, alongside food and other essential supplies.
Since a ceasefire was established last month between Israel and Hamas, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza. However, many found their homes destroyed, with entire neighborhoods in Gaza City and towns like Jabalia and Beit Hanoon reduced to rubble due to Israeli bombardment.
The Government Media Office accused Israel of hindering the flow of aid and shelter supplies, claiming this contravenes the ceasefire agreement that took effect on January 19. The agreement stipulates that 60,000 trailers and 200,000 tents should be allowed into Gaza to accommodate those displaced by the conflict. Additionally, it calls for the entry of equipment to clear the debris from destroyed homes. Officials stated that Israel’s actions are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and could have severe consequences for civilians in the region.
Antoine Renard, a representative from the World Food Programme, noted a recent increase in aid to Gaza but indicated that some Israeli restrictions remain in place, particularly concerning items deemed to have dual-use potential for both civilian and military applications. He stressed the necessity of allowing essential items, such as medical supplies and tents, into the territory.
Amid these developments, U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed relocating the entire population of Gaza, citing the extensive destruction. This controversial plan has been met with criticism, with many Arab states rejecting it outright. President Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, where discussions will likely focus on the ongoing ceasefire and its sustainability.
The ceasefire, which is set to last for 42 days, includes provisions for the release of 33 Israeli captives and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, with its expiration date set for March 1. However, the second phase of the agreement, which would entail the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of all captives, remains unresolved.
Trump acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire, expressing concern over the violence witnessed in the region. Ofer Cassif, a member of the Israeli parliament and critic of the government’s actions, voiced alarm at the lack of progress in discussions regarding the next phase of the ceasefire, suggesting that the current administration is not genuinely committed to peace or the welfare of civilians.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering death toll, with nearly 62,000 Palestinians reported killed since hostilities began in October 2023, including many who are missing and presumed dead. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with urgent calls for international support to address the humanitarian crisis and provide relief to those affected.