Heavy rains and freezing temperatures are compounding humanitarian challenges in Gaza, with the UN warning on 11 December 2025 that vulnerable populations face heightened risks due to damaged infrastructure and limited aid access. Over 200 families relocated this week from flood-prone coastal areas to eastern Khan Younis as seasonal storms batter makeshift shelters.
Humanitarian Response Intensifies
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has increased daily winter clothing distributions for children from 5,000 to 8,000 kits. Teams are reinforcing flood defenses with sandbags and clearing storm drains, while 260,000 residents received food parcels and flour this month through 60 distribution points.
Education and Child Protection Strains
While 65 classrooms have been cleared for educational use, aid groups report critical shortages of learning materials due to entry restrictions. Save the Children noted four of its child-friendly spaces closed last month after storms flooded camps with sewage-contaminated water, leaving adolescents to prioritize tent repairs over schooling.
Food Security Efforts Expand
In a first since August, 3,500 veterinary kits entered Gaza to support livestock-dependent families. The UN has distributed animal fodder to over 100 herders, aiming to stabilize food production amid widespread supply shortages.
OCHA emphasized that ongoing security incidents continue to endanger civilians and aid workers, underscoring the need for sustained international engagement.
