IOM Warns about the Devastating Impact of Winter Rains and Freezing Temperatures on Displaced Palestinians in Gaza

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) expressed deep alarm about the devastating impact of winter rains and freezing temperatures on displaced Palestinians in Gaza, which adds to the already dire humanitarian catastrophe there.
 "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.
 According to IOM, heavy rains and flooding have overwhelmed displacement sites and makeshift shelters. Families are left exposed to harsh conditions, struggling to repair tents damaged from months of use. Systematic access constraints, as reported by OCHA, have severely hindered aid delivery; only 285,000 people received shelter kits since September 2024, and at least 945,000 still urgently need winterization assistance.
 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 ready in warehouses and entry points, but severe access restrictions prevent these supplies from reaching those in need.
 IOM reiterates its urgent call for a ceasefire to enable the safe and immediate delivery of life-saving aid to those in desperate need.
 In a related context, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq cautioned that the collapse of UNRWA operations due to the proposed Israeli legislation will exacerbate the suffering of the Palestinians. He stressed that UNRWA served as a vital lifeline for millions of Palestinians, offering essential services such as education, health care, and psychosocial support.
 UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said that the Israeli occupation legislation, expected to be enacted in the coming weeks, seeks to erase Palestinian history and identity. He also emphasized UNRWA's dedication to stay and urged the international community to take immediate action to support Palestinian refugees and safeguard their rights.