In a press briefing, Harris emphasized the dire circumstances faced by residents of Gaza, who are grappling with severe shortages of food, clean water, and shelter amidst the ongoing Israeli siege. She noted that the harsh winter conditions have exacerbated the suffering, adding another layer of difficulty for the already strained health sector.
Heavy rains have particularly impacted the lives of over 700,000 displaced people living in makeshift tents. According to Harris, the deteriorating living conditions have led to a surge in diseases such as respiratory infections, coughs, and pneumonia, particularly among children. She also highlighted an alarming increase in malnutrition across the region.
The WHO’s warning underscores the urgent need for humanitarian aid to address the escalating health crisis in Gaza, where healthcare services have been pushed to the brink due to prolonged hostilities and blockades. (ILKHA)