UNRWA urges immediate aid entry to Gaza as harsh winter weather claims lives

GAZA, Dec. 18 (YPA) – UNRWA issued an urgent appeal on Thursday for the immediate entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, citing the devastating impact of harsh weather conditions on thousands living in tents and damaged shelters.

The agency highlighted that while it continues to support displaced families, Israeli occupation authorities have persisted for months in blocking the direct delivery of aid.

The recent cold wave has significantly worsened the humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that 17 people have died, including four children who perished from the extreme cold, while others were killed by the collapse of war-damaged buildings.

The Palestinian Red Cross and Civil Defense described the situation as “extremely critical.” Despite the cessation of hostilities and the arrival of some shipments, officials warned that aid remains insufficient to meet the massive scale of need.

Ongoing border restrictions, logistical delays, and destroyed infrastructure continue to hinder the effective storage and distribution of life-saving supplies across the Gaza Strip.

YPA