What are the biggest immediate risks to people, particularly children and the elderly? | DW News

Key Concepts

• Displaced Palestinians: Individuals forced to leave their homes, particularly those living in temporary encampments.
• Tent Encampments: Makeshift shelters constructed from canvas and other materials, often lacking adequate protection from the elements.
• Harsh Weather Conditions: Severe rain and flooding impacting living conditions in Gaza.
• Occupying Power: The legal responsibility of an occupying state (Israel, in this context) under international law to ensure access to aid and basic necessities for the population in occupied territories.
• Humanitarian Aid: Essential supplies and assistance provided to populations in need.
• Ceasefire Terms: Agreements to halt hostilities, which include provisions for the daily delivery of aid.
• Humanitarian Access: The ability for aid organizations to deliver assistance safely and without obstruction.
• Rubbles and Unexploded Ordnance: Debris from destruction and unexploded military materials posing significant safety hazards.
• International Law: Legal frameworks governing the conduct of states, including the responsibilities of occupying powers and the protection of civilians.

Impact of Harsh Weather on Displaced Palestinians

Heavy rain and flooding have exacerbated the already dire conditions for thousands of displaced Palestinians living in tent encampments along the coast of Gaza. These makeshift neighborhoods have transformed into swamps, with residents struggling to salvage their belongings. One woman described wood and metal falling on her head and water soaking mattresses, clothes, and children. For many, this marks their third consecutive winter living in tents with only canvas for protection against the elements. The destruction of tents and lack of basic necessities like dry clothing are critical issues.

Responsibility and Humanitarian Access

Rhham Jafari, Communications and Advocacy Coordinator for Action Aid in the occupied Palestinian territories, highlights that the responsibility for these conditions falls on Israel as the occupying power. International law mandates that an occupying power must ensure access to aid. Despite declared ceasefires and diplomatic commitments, Israel continues to restrict humanitarian aid and shelter items.

Jafari explains that the question "Where is Hamas?" from a displaced woman reflects her desperation and perhaps a perceived lack of response from all parties. However, as a humanitarian worker, her focus is on international law and the responsibilities of the occupying power. She emphasizes that Israel, controlling the borders, is responsible for the catastrophe, which could be mitigated if humanitarian access were facilitated and borders were opened. Mediators are also criticized for not exerting enough pressure on Israel to ensure the implementation of ceasefire terms.

Ceasefire Terms and Aid Delivery

A key point of contention is the adherence to ceasefire terms, which stipulate the daily delivery of 600 aid trucks to Gaza. Israel, however, is not meeting this number. Jafari argues that overcoming the catastrophe requires opening all crossing borders and ensuring safe access for humanitarian conveys and aid missions.

Obstacles to Recovery and Safety

Beyond aid delivery, the ongoing violations of the ceasefire, including daily airstrikes and drone attacks, create a dangerous environment. The presence of over 55 million tons of rubble needs to be cleared, and unexploded ordnance must be removed to create safe areas for people to set up tents and to increase living space.

Conclusion

The situation in Gaza is a critical humanitarian crisis compounded by severe weather. Displaced Palestinians are facing extreme hardship due to inadequate shelter and restricted access to essential aid. The legal responsibility of the occupying power, Israel, to facilitate humanitarian access is paramount. Furthermore, the ongoing conflict and the presence of debris and unexploded ordnance present significant long-term challenges to recovery and safety. The effective implementation of ceasefire terms and increased pressure on all parties are crucial for alleviating the suffering of the affected population.