Israel Sends Tens of Thousands of Tents and Winter Supplies to Gaza

Israel's Defense Forces and the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) have announced the entry of over 91,000 tents and more than 8,200 trucks loaded with winter supplies into the Gaza Strip. This initiative is part of a plan to prepare for the winter season, coordinated with the Peace Council, the United Nations, international organizations, and donor countries. The equipment includes tarpaulins, blankets, winter clothing, water and sanitation equipment, medical supplies, vaccines, and mobile clinics. According to the statement, over 850 requests for trucks and equipment for shelter, health, water, and sanitation have been approved. However, approximately 50% of these approved requests have not yet been implemented due to logistical and financial difficulties faced by the UN and international organizations. The statement also accused Hamas of exploiting humanitarian aid for military purposes, noting that Israel inspects equipment to prevent it from reaching the organization. Military sources reported that the Israeli security establishment is preparing to facilitate the entry of equipment for rehabilitating Gaza's sewage networks, following political directives. These actions were prompted by a recent low-pressure system that caused widespread damage in Gaza, alongside U.S. pressure to expedite infrastructure projects related to sanitation to improve humanitarian conditions and prepare for winter. The Peace Council had previously urged the Israeli government to immediately allow winter supplies, shelters, and sanitation materials into Gaza, aligning with the Sharm El Sheikh Memorandum understandings and the peace plan. This call followed heavy rains that flooded thousands of temporary tents and camps, leading the Council to describe the situation as a humanitarian emergency for displaced people facing harsh conditions. Concurrently, the Council called on Hamas leadership to cease military operations, lay down arms, and transfer administrative authority to the national committee for managing Gaza.