Hamas cites 70,000 flooded tents as Israel claims winter readiness
Security officials say 91,000 new tents were delivered to Gaza before Saturday's heavy rains, but they are holding back permanent construction materials until Hamas disarms.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
Hamas attributed heavy flooding in Gaza to Israeli actions on Sunday, following a storm that began Friday night and intensified on Saturday. The group stated that approximately 70,000 tents were submerged within 12 hours, estimating initial direct damages at $3 million.
In response, Israeli security officials rejected the criticism on Sunday morning. They stated that preparations for winter weather had already included the delivery of 91,000 new tents, waterproof tarps, and 9,000 truckloads of clothing and blankets to the enclave. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, or COGAT, the Gaza Board of Peace, and the United Nations facilitated these shipments.
Despite these deliveries, officials announced that equipment for reconstructing permanent buildings and mobile homes will not enter the territory until Hamas disarms and the Gaza Strip is demilitarized. A security official noted that Hamas is currently using incoming aid to rebuild its military wing. The official argued that the current situation is better than previous winters because there is no active military maneuvering or population displacement, though acknowledged that difficulties remain.
COGAT indicated it had anticipated a coordinated Hamas campaign to blame Israel for the winter conditions. As part of this effort, the group uploaded photos and videos to social media highlighting the harsh weather and its impact on residents.
Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defense reported receiving 2,166 distress calls since the storm began but responded to only 218 due to shortages of equipment and rescue tools. Spokesman Mahmoud Basal said water levels reached 1.5 meters in some locations, flooding displacement camps, shelters, and specific areas including the Gaza City port, western Deir al-Balah, northern Nuseirat camp, and parts of Jabalya and Beit Lahiya.
Families in affected areas used buckets and sand to manage the water that soaked mattresses, blankets, and personal belongings. Security officials are currently waiting to see what new government will be formed in Gaza and whether it will insist on Hamas disarming before allowing further reconstruction materials.
COGAT also encouraged aid organizations and countries to continue donating supplies and assisting in humanitarian efforts to offset the ongoing damage.
