Palestinian medics report the deaths of six babies in Gaza related to hypothermia and cold injuries as the region struggles with severe winter conditions. Medical facilities are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance to support displaced populations.
Tragic Loss of Infants in Gaza Amid Harsh Winter Conditions
Tragic Loss of Infants in Gaza Amid Harsh Winter Conditions
Six babies have died due to cold weather in Gaza, raising alarms over inadequate shelter for displaced families.
At least six newborns in Gaza have succumbed to severe cold over the past fortnight amid allegations of inadequate shelter supplies, according to local health officials. Reports from the Patient's Friends Benevolent Society (PFBS) hospital indicate that the struggling healthcare system has seen nine infants admitted with cold-related injuries, leading to five fatalities, while another infant remains critically ill.
The family of a two-month-old girl has confirmed her death due to the freezing conditions near Khan Younis, further emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The PFBS is calling for immediate influxes of caravans and fuel to improve conditions for an estimated 945,000 displaced individuals in makeshift shelters.
Hamas has accused Israel of restricting necessary supplies, claiming a failure to deliver agreed-upon humanitarian aid, a sentiment denied by Israeli authorities. Over two-thirds of Gaza's buildings have been damaged or destroyed by the ongoing conflict, and currently, only 18 of 35 hospitals are operational, grappling with essential medical shortages.
The humanitarian crisis intensifies with nighttime temperatures plummeting to below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), with reports of lows reaching 3 degrees Celsius (37 degrees Fahrenheit). Medical staff have raised alarms about the consequences of the cold for vulnerable neonates, explaining that many cases involve extremely low birthweight infants.
In harrowing accounts from families, the heartbreaking loss of young lives is detailed, with one father recounting the discovery of his daughter's lifeless body, stiff from the cold, during a night’s torment in their tent. Dr. Muneer al-Boursh reported a total of 15 child fatalities due to freezing temperatures since the onset of winter.
As the situation unfolds, the Hamas-run health ministry continues to criticize Israel for allegedly failing to adhere to humanitarian protocols, asserting that required supplies have not been allowed into the region. Conversely, Israel's military has stated its commitment to delivering humanitarian aid amid ongoing discussions that could impact the fragile ceasefire established five weeks ago.
In light of escalating tensions, both sides appear entrenched in their positions regarding humanitarian aid and prisoner exchanges, making the immediate future uncertain for the people of Gaza as they endure harsh realities compounded by severe cold and ongoing conflict.
