A severe winter storm has hit the Gaza Strip, putting hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians at risk of cold and flooding. The region, already scarred by two years of conflict, is struggling to cope with the harsh weather conditions. According to Palestinian sources, at least 12 people have died and thousands of makeshift homes have been flooded.

The United Nations migration agency has warned that close to 800,000 displaced Palestinians are at heightened risk from the rain and floods. Many are living in tents that are not designed to withstand the winter weather. Said Khalil, a resident of Gaza City, described how his family’s tent collapsed during the rain, leaving them in need of more durable shelter. “We need containers to live in,” he said. “These tents are not winter-proof.”

The storm has caused significant damage, with 13 buildings collapsing due to the rain. In one incident, five people were buried under the rubble. Despite the risks, some residents feel they have no choice but to return to their damaged homes. Yassin Al-Baghdadi, whose family was forced to move back into their old house, said, “We got out just in time before it collapsed. Where should we go? Where can we live?”

Aid groups are calling on Israel to allow more aid to enter Gaza, enabling residents to start rebuilding desperately needed houses and infrastructure. The situation highlights the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region. As the storm continues to affect the Gaza Strip, the international community is being urged to provide support to those affected. The crisis is a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians in the region, who are in need of durable solutions to address their displacement and housing needs.