Gaza Resident Expresses No Regret for October 7th Amidst Severe Flooding

A resident of the Gaza Strip, interviewed by Kikar HaShabat reporter Moshe Aryeh, described the harsh conditions faced by displaced families due to recent heavy rains. The first winter storms have caused severe flooding in Gaza's displacement camps, destroying tents and displacing residents further. The interviewed individual recounted his struggle to reassemble his tent after it was blown away by the wind and rain, emphasizing the lack of shelter and the difficulty of escaping the elements.

When asked if he regretted the October 7th attacks, the resident firmly stated, "We do not regret anything in our lives." He attributed the current hardships to divine will, asserting that "God gave us determination, strength, and patience so that He would reward us in paradise." He added that they desire nothing from this world, leaving it to those who pursue it.

Palestinian reports indicate that approximately 70,000 tents were flooded within 12 hours, with rainwater penetrating makeshift shelters, soaking mattresses, blankets, and belongings. Gaza's Civil Defense services reported receiving around 1,500 distress calls from residents seeking assistance. The flooding has impacted areas including the Gaza port, Jabalia, Beit Lahia in the north, and Deir al-Balah and Nuseirat in the center of the Strip.

According to Palestinian news agency Wafa, two people were injured in the northern Strip due to a wall collapse in a war-damaged structure. The report also mentioned water accumulation in low-lying areas where tents were erected. Hamas's government media office claimed the 70,000 tent figure, which has not been independently verified, and blamed Israel for the situation, while the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) reported the entry of additional pumping trucks into Gaza and preparations for the rain with international organizations.