Gaza Floods Spark Dispute Over Winter Aid Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Heavy rainfall over the weekend caused flooding in Gaza refugee camps, leading to a debate over aid for the Palestinian civilian population, according to Israeli media. The Israeli military stated it is providing extensive winter aid to the coastal strip. The Board of Peace, established under an October 2025 ceasefire to oversee reconstruction, declared the floods an acute humanitarian emergency and accused the Israeli government of delays in humanitarian supplies. The organization also criticized Hamas for refusing to disarm and relinquish control of Gaza, noting that the war initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has created a dire situation for Gaza's residents.

The Board of Peace reported that recent heavy rains exacerbated the difficult conditions for thousands of displaced families. The group urged Israel to facilitate the import of essential materials for emergency shelters, water and sewage systems, and drainage, while also holding Hamas responsible for ongoing difficulties due to its continued control over the population and its arsenal. The Board emphasized that Hamas's refusal to disarm and cede governmental authority hinders progress and worsens civilian problems, referencing a 15-point plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump for Gaza's future.

While acknowledging measures considered by Israel, the Board deemed them insufficient and stated that delays have worsened a predictable humanitarian crisis. The transfer of civil administration to the Palestinian technocratic National Committee for Gaza Administration is also stalled. The Board called for the immediate release of all necessary winter and relief goods, with particular contention surrounding Israel's refusal to allow mobile homes into Gaza, which aid organizations consider vital for protecting displaced families from winter conditions.

Israeli military officials disputed claims of insufficient aid, detailing a winter preparation plan implemented with COGAT, the UN, and other international bodies. They reported delivering over 91,000 tents, 8,200 trucks of supplies including blankets and winter clothing, and improvements to water and sanitation infrastructure. The import of twelve vacuum trucks for the ICRC was also facilitated, along with medical supplies and mobile clinics for UNICEF and the International Medical Corps. However, only about half of approved shipments have reached Gaza, with the IDF citing delays by the UN and aid organizations in collecting equipment at border crossings.

Israel has banned certain technical equipment, citing concerns that Hamas could repurpose it for military use. The military stated that the UN and aid organizations cannot guarantee such equipment would be protected from Hamas, necessitating a review of alternatives that meet civilian needs without enabling Hamas rearmament. According to Hamas-controlled authorities in Gaza, over 70,000 tents were affected by the weekend's floods, impacting tens of thousands of people.