Humanitarians demand rapid entry of winter relief supplies into Gaza after deadly rainstorm

The latest heavy rainstorm in Gaza killed both children and adults and flooded or swept away thousands of family shelters. Critical services were suspended, leaving many without essential assistance. Humanitarian partners have identified an urgent set of winter necessities: more than 150,000 tents are waiting outside the enclave, alongside warm clothing, blankets and equipment for pumping water, removing debris and clearing explosive ordnance. Access to higher ground and reinforced drainage systems is also highlighted as vital to prevent further loss of life as the season progresses.

Humanitarian actors say Israeli policies are hindering the flow of these supplies. Multiple approval steps, limited crossing capacity and narrow, unpredictable delivery windows delay shipments. Restrictions also limit access to land away from the shoreline, where flood risk is lower, and impede repairs to water and wastewater networks. Combined with a funding shortfall that has left the appeal under‑financed, many of the tents and other items remain outside Gaza while needs inside continue to grow.

The Humanitarian Country Team, comprising UN agencies and NGOs, has issued an urgent appeal for member states to use diplomatic influence to accelerate the entry of winter supplies and to provide the requested humanitarian funding without delay. They stress that, as the occupying power, Israel bears responsibility for meeting the basic needs of Gaza’s population. With winter expected to last for months, partners warn that shelter must not be made conditional on political progress, emphasizing that lives are at stake and immediate action is essential.