Herald Reporter
THE State of Palestine has appealed for urgent international intervention to avert further loss of life in Gaza, where flooding, collapsing buildings and deteriorating winter conditions are worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis.
Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Zimbabwe Dr Tamer Almassri yesterday said the first rainfall of the season had exposed the desperate conditions facing displaced Palestinians, with preliminary estimates indicating that more than 70 000 tents had been flooded.
He said buildings and walls already weakened by Israeli bombardments had also collapsed, causing injuries among civilians.
Ambassador Almassri said the unfolding crisis was not simply a result of severe weather but was compounded by prolonged conflict, widespread destruction of infrastructure, continued displacement and restrictions on humanitarian assistance.
He accused Israel of obstructing the implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including Resolutions 2720 and 2803.
According to the State of Palestine, nearly two million people are enduring appalling humanitarian conditions across approximately 270 000 tents and displacement sites throughout the Gaza Strip.
Between 60 and 85 percent of the tents are estimated to be worn out and unsuitable for continued use, while more than 400 000 displaced people are living in particularly vulnerable areas exposed to flooding, rainwater accumulation and coastal hazards.
The destruction of sewage and rainwater drainage networks has further compounded the crisis, increasing the risk of contamination and disease outbreaks.
Children, older persons and patients are particularly vulnerable as many lack adequate winter clothing, blankets, mattresses and safe heating facilities. Electricity outages and fuel shortages are also exposing displaced families to life-threatening cold and disease.
The State of Palestine has called on the international community, the United Nations and humanitarian organisations to move beyond expressions of concern and take immediate, coordinated measures to protect civilian lives.
It wants international pressure on Israel to open all crossings and ensure the unrestricted and sustained entry of humanitarian assistance in sufficient quantities to reach all areas of Gaza.
It has also called for the urgent delivery of fuel and equipment to restore water and sewage systems, remove floodwater and wastewater, and prevent further deterioration of public health conditions.
Emergency winter shelter, including temporary housing, weather-resistant tents, waterproof materials and supplies to repair damaged buildings, is also urgently required.
The Palestinian authorities have further appealed for winter clothing, blankets, mattresses and safe heating supplies, particularly for children, infants, older persons and patients.
The appeal also highlights the need for medicines, medical supplies, clean water and sanitation materials, alongside preventive healthcare interventions to avert disease outbreaks.
Essential logistical and technical equipment is also needed to support municipalities, civil defence teams and humanitarian responders in protecting civilians and managing the effects of flooding.
Ambassador Almassri said the international community had both the means and responsibility to intervene, particularly by ensuring the implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions and guaranteeing unhindered humanitarian assistance.
He warned that leaving nearly two million Palestinians exposed to rain, flooding, freezing temperatures and sewage contamination without adequate shelter or necessities would result in preventable suffering and loss of life.
The State of Palestine has urged the international community to act immediately to avert further deterioration of humanitarian conditions as winter sets in.
