Palestinian Demands to Lift Restrictions on the Entry of Shelter Equipment into Gaza

The Palestinian Presidency on Saturday called on world countries to pressure Israel to allow the entry of prefabricated houses and tents into the Gaza Strip, as the humanitarian situation of the displaced worsens after heavy rains flooded damaged tents and displaced thousands of families.

In a statement, the Presidency said that its appeal is directed particularly to the U.S. administration and the countries guaranteeing the ceasefire agreement, demanding the lifting of restrictions that hinder the entry of mobile homes and shelter equipment into the Strip. It explained that the tents currently available in Gaza have become unsuitable for facing harsh weather conditions and do not provide sufficient protection for residents.

The Presidency pointed out that the continued obstacles imposed on the entry of shelter materials exacerbate the risks threatening children, women, and the elderly, especially with the onset of the effects of weather depressions expected to intensify in the coming months.

Heavy rains swept across wide areas of the Strip on Friday, leading to the flooding of displacement camps and significant damage to many tents, according to local reports, which caused thousands of families to become homeless amid a severe shortage of basic services. Residents stated that the floods destroyed their belongings, while water swept through residential areas already damaged by the war.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli side regarding the demands to allow the entry of shelter materials.