Gaza officials: 24 dead from extreme cold, including 21 children

Gaza officials: 24 dead from extreme cold, including 21 children

Palestinian authorities in Gaza have announced that at least 24 people, 21 of whom are children, have died due to extreme cold conditions since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. The latest fatalities underscore a deepening humanitarian catastrophe exacerbated by winter weather and a lack of basic shelter.

Vulnerable displaced population at risk

The government media office stated that all victims were displaced Palestinians living in makeshift camps. Since the start of the current winter season, seven children have perished from the cold. The statement further reported that approximately 7,000 tents have been destroyed by recent severe weather, leaving families exposed to freezing temperatures.

A crisis of shelter and supplies

The media office warned of "catastrophic humanitarian consequences," citing a near-total absence of heating, a severe shortage of blankets and winter clothing, and ongoing restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries. It held Israel "fully responsible" for the deaths, which it described as part of a broader policy. The office called on the international community and UN agencies to facilitate safe shelter and the unrestricted entry of relief supplies immediately.

Context of ongoing casualties

The dire conditions persist despite a nominal ceasefire that began on October 10, 2025. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, Israeli attacks have continued, resulting in hundreds of additional casualties since that date. The broader offensive since 2023 has caused massive destruction, displacing over 1.5 million people and destroying infrastructure, creating a man-made vulnerability to natural elements that nations providing aid, like Türkiye, have repeatedly warned against.