GENEVA: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expressed concern over the devastating impact of winter rains and freezing temperatures on displaced Palestinians in Gaza.
“Vulnerable people, including at least seven infants, have died from hypothermia, and these tragic deaths underscore the urgent need for shelter and other help to get to the people of Gaza immediately,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope in a statement on Friday.
Heavy rains and flooding have devastated displacement sites and makeshift shelters, leaving families vulnerable to harsh conditions as they struggle to repair worn-out tents. According to OCHA, systematic access constraints have significantly hampered aid delivery, with only 285,000 people receiving shelter assistance since September 2024.
By mid-December, the Shelter Cluster—a coordination group comprising UN agencies, and international, and local humanitarian organisations—estimated that at least 945,000 people urgently require winterisation assistance, including thermal clothing, blankets, and tarps to protect their shelters from rain and cold.
“IOM has delivered nearly 180,000 emergency shelter items to partners inside Gaza since mid-November and has over 1.5 million more winter supplies—sealing-off kits, tents, bedding kits —ready at warehouses and entry points, but severe access restrictions prevent them from reaching those in need,” the statement said.
The IOM urgently calls for a ceasefire to facilitate the safe and immediate delivery of life-saving aid to those in critical need. It also reiterates its appeal for all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, protect civilians, release all hostages, and ensure safe, swift, unimpeded, and sustained humanitarian access.
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“The people of Gaza deserve safety, shelter and dignity. IOM stands ready to mobilise aid and support displaced communities, but humanitarian access must be granted to make this possible,” it said.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, since October 7, 2023, at least 45,658 Palestinians have been killed and 108,583 injured in the Palestinian territory. The ministry also said that many victims remained trapped under rubble, with rescue operations hindered by ongoing Israeli bombardments.
