Babies in Gaza ‘freezing to death,’ UNRWA warns
Palestinian children try to protect themselves from the cold weather by lighting a fire in the Gaza Strip's Deir al-Balah city, December 27, 2024. The (AA Photo)
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned that babies in Gaza are “freezing to death” amid cold weather and a severe shortage of shelter. He highlighted that basic winter supplies like blankets and mattresses have not been allowed into Gaza for months.
Why it matters
Gaza has been under heavy Israeli bombardment and a tight blockade for over a year, creating dire humanitarian conditions. With winter setting in, the lack of adequate shelter and essential goods puts lives at extreme risk—particularly for infants.
Details
- Critical shortages: Lazzarini called for an immediate cease-fire and urgent delivery of winter necessities, including blankets, clothing, and heating materials.
- Harsh conditions: Many displaced Gazans live in makeshift tents of fabric and plastic, with no access to proper insulation against the cold.
- Rising toll: In the past five days alone, five people—including four infants—have died due to cold weather, according to local reports.
Zoom in
Humanitarian agencies stress that without immediate relief, the toll could rise, as the most vulnerable populations—infants, the elderly, and the sick—are unable to survive under such extreme conditions.
Zoom out
The ongoing blockade and bombardment of Gaza have compounded existing struggles with poverty and displacement. International observers continue to call for an end to the violence and unrestricted access to humanitarian aid to prevent further fatalities.
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