Out in the cold

Gaza is in ruins. Pummeled daily by Israeli airstrikes and under permanent siege by the Zionist entity, the people endure some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Yet the world and Muslim countries hardly raise a finger against the genocide taking place. Nearly one million displaced Palestinians are at risk of extreme cold and rain this winter, the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned. According to UNRWA, only 23% of the needs for shelter and protection from the harsh winter elements have been met, leaving almost a million displaced people vulnerable to exposure. With homes and neighbourhoods reduced to rubble by continuous Israeli airstrikes, many families are left to scavenge what little remains of their homes, seeking refuge in conditions that are already unbearable. The threat of cold and rain exacerbates their suffering, making it nearly impossible to survive without urgent aid. The lack of adequate shelter and supplies underscores the international community's failure to address the dire needs of the people in Gaza.

The situation in Gaza is not just about the immediate physical dangers posed by the cold. The longer-term consequences of this war are equally devastating. The destruction of vital infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools and power plants, has crippled the region's ability to function. The healthcare system is overwhelmed, unable to treat the thousands of injured civilians. The international community must prioritise the protection of civilians and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. It is not enough to simply condemn the violence; action is needed to alleviate the suffering of innocent Palestinians whose lives have been torn apart. Another UN General Assembly vote for an 'unconditional' ceasefire in Gaza, scheduled yesterday, is unlikely to meet a fate other than being vetoed in support of Israel, as on previous occasions. The world needs to do more for Gaza and all powers need to come together to end the suffering of the Palestinian people.