In Gaza, a chilling humanitarian crisis is unraveling as the harsh winter weather leads to tragic losses among the youngest citizens. According to Palestinian medics, at least six babies have succumbed to the cold over the past fortnight, underscoring the urgent need for adequate shelter and heating amidst the ongoing conflict. Doctors at the Patient's Friends Benevolent Society hospital in Gaza City reported that nine newborns suffering from cold injuries were admitted, with five of those tragically passing away due to hypothermia and cold exposure, and one remaining in critical condition.
Among the victims was a two-month-old girl near Khan Younis, whose family reported her death due to the extreme cold. The healthcare providers at PFBS have called for immediate delivery of caravans and fuel to combat the dire living conditions confronting the estimated 945,000 displaced individuals, many of whom are enduring the winter in tents and makeshift housing without heating resources.
With nearly 70% of buildings in Gaza either damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing hostilities between Hamas and Israel, the healthcare infrastructure is severely strained, with only 18 out of 35 hospitals remaining partially operational. Reports indicate a consistent decline in night-time temperatures, often falling below 10°C (50°F), particularly reaching an alarming low of 3°C (37°F) this week, prompting additional stress on already fragile medical resources.
Dr. Saeed Salah, the medical director at PFBS, had previously issued warnings regarding the impact of cold-related ailments, stating that three newborns had died of hypothermia in recent days. His colleague, Dr. Samer Lubad, confirmed that cases of cold injuries experienced a notable uptick, notably affecting infants weighing between 1.7 kg and 2 kg (3.7 - 4.4 lbs).
The head of the pediatric department at Khan Younis' Nasser Hospital corroborated the dire circumstances, reporting the recent admission of a two-month-old girl who died after being found unresponsive by her mother in their family's tent. Local health ministry officials have indicated that since winter's onset, upwards of 15 children have died due to cold conditions.
In the midst of this crisis, Hamas has criticized Israel for not fulfilling its obligations regarding the transportation of humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies and temporary housing materials. Meanwhile, Israel's military stated that it has fulfilled its commitment to deliver humanitarian aid, including numerous tents, amidst ongoing conflict and negotiations surrounding hostages and prisoners.
As the international community watches in apprehension, the fate of both ceasefire negotiations and continued humanitarian support remains uncertain, contributing to the deepening plight of the citizens of Gaza in these historically harsh winter conditions.
Among the victims was a two-month-old girl near Khan Younis, whose family reported her death due to the extreme cold. The healthcare providers at PFBS have called for immediate delivery of caravans and fuel to combat the dire living conditions confronting the estimated 945,000 displaced individuals, many of whom are enduring the winter in tents and makeshift housing without heating resources.
With nearly 70% of buildings in Gaza either damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing hostilities between Hamas and Israel, the healthcare infrastructure is severely strained, with only 18 out of 35 hospitals remaining partially operational. Reports indicate a consistent decline in night-time temperatures, often falling below 10°C (50°F), particularly reaching an alarming low of 3°C (37°F) this week, prompting additional stress on already fragile medical resources.
Dr. Saeed Salah, the medical director at PFBS, had previously issued warnings regarding the impact of cold-related ailments, stating that three newborns had died of hypothermia in recent days. His colleague, Dr. Samer Lubad, confirmed that cases of cold injuries experienced a notable uptick, notably affecting infants weighing between 1.7 kg and 2 kg (3.7 - 4.4 lbs).
The head of the pediatric department at Khan Younis' Nasser Hospital corroborated the dire circumstances, reporting the recent admission of a two-month-old girl who died after being found unresponsive by her mother in their family's tent. Local health ministry officials have indicated that since winter's onset, upwards of 15 children have died due to cold conditions.
In the midst of this crisis, Hamas has criticized Israel for not fulfilling its obligations regarding the transportation of humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies and temporary housing materials. Meanwhile, Israel's military stated that it has fulfilled its commitment to deliver humanitarian aid, including numerous tents, amidst ongoing conflict and negotiations surrounding hostages and prisoners.
As the international community watches in apprehension, the fate of both ceasefire negotiations and continued humanitarian support remains uncertain, contributing to the deepening plight of the citizens of Gaza in these historically harsh winter conditions.
