Gaza Herald – The Palestinian Civil Defense in Gaza issued a late-night warning on Thursday over an intense cold wave expected to bring a sharp drop in temperatures and strong winds, posing serious risks to civilians, particularly displaced families sheltering in damaged homes and makeshift tents.
Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Bassal said the harsh weather could lead to the collapse of structures already weakened by airstrikes, while also increasing the likelihood of deaths and injuries caused by extreme cold. He stressed that infants, the elderly, and chronically ill patients are especially vulnerable, as thousands remain without adequate heating, proper shelter, or basic protection from the elements.
Bassal noted that Civil Defense crews continue to operate under minimal capabilities, facing acute shortages of equipment and fuel, which severely hampers their ability to respond quickly to emergencies during such dangerous weather conditions.
He urged the international community, the United Nations, and human rights organizations to take immediate action and apply serious pressure to allow the entry of shelter materials, fuel, heating supplies, and essential humanitarian aid, warning that Gaza’s freezing nights could quickly turn into another deadly humanitarian disaster.
