Gaza is facing unprecedented humanitarian crises as severe weather conditions exacerbate the dire situation caused by continuous conflict. Recently, the Gaza health authorities reported the death of Al-Hakim Ahmed al-Zaharneh, a healthcare worker, who succumbed to extreme cold. His body was found inside his tent located in al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis. This tragic incident highlights the grim realities faced by many displaced residents who have been forced from their homes due to the relentless military operations by Israel.
According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, this incident reflects the broader suffering of Gazans as they endure harsh winter temperatures without adequate heating or shelter. The ministry stated, “This incidentcomes in light of the difficult humanitarian conditions...,” painting a picture of regular fatalities among some of the most vulnerable populations.
Indeed, Al-Zaharneh's death is not isolated. The ministry also reported the deaths of four Palestinian babies over the span of just 72 hours, emphasizing the lethal combination of severe cold and malnutrition. Hani Mahmoud, reporting for Al Jazeera from Deir el-Balah, expressed deep concern, stating, “For 14 months now, people here have been lacking basic necessities...even in summer.” This lack of resources has only worsened as winter approaches, and the temperatures plummet. He noted how these extreme conditions feel even harsher for those residing within flimsy tent camps.
Mahmoud elaborated on the maternal struggles under these difficult conditions, noting, “The conditions are worse for vulnerable groups like babies and, in absence of [humanitarian aid], it is natural...that deaths will happen.” Desperation looms as basic necessities such as food and medical supplies become increasingly scarce.
The United Nations and various organizations have continually condemned the worsening humanitarian conditions within Gaza. Reports indicate the vast majority of Gaza’s 2.4 million residents have been displaced at least once since the outbreak of conflict with Hamas on October 7, 2023. Many are crammed inside tents, which provide inadequate protection from the winter elements, leaving them exposed to cold, rain, and flooding.
Meanwhile, as the humanitarian nightmare escalates, the scenario is compounded by recent actions from the U.S. government. A report from the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) highlighted the impending famine situation across northern Gaza. Initially, the report warned of famine-like conditions developing due to the “near-total blockade” imposed by Israel. Yet, this alarming report was retracted after public pressure from U.S. officials, following criticism from the U.S. ambassador to Israel. This withdrawal raised concerns about the transparency and accuracy of the information being disseminated amid such crisis.
The director of Gaza’s Health Ministry also weighed in on the catastrophic circumstances, stating, “Contact with the hospital has been lost,” after Israeli forces stormed the Kamal Adwan Hospital. This hospital was one of the few remaining medical facilities still operational amid the conflict, having forcibly evacuated its 350 staff members and patients, compounding the healthcare crisis as battles rage on.
With at least 45,436 Palestinian lives reportedly claimed and over 108,038 injured since the start of the conflict, and more than 1,139 Israelis killed during the initial Hamas attacks, the toll is staggering. This humanitarian catastrophe continues to escalate, underscoring the need for international aid and intervention to address the multifaceted crises facing Gaza’s civilian population.
Every day, not just the conflict but also the extreme environmental conditions claim more lives, making the urgent call for humanitarian assistance more dire than ever before. The fate of millions rests uncertain as the struggle for survival continues on multiple fronts, compounded by external pressures and internal strife within one of the world's most troubled spots.
