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Israeli Strikes Continue in Gaza Amid Heavy Rains, Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

Israeli airstrikes hit Gaza again, violating ceasefire; heavy rains flood tents of displaced Palestinians, worsening humanitarian crisis.
2025-12-30
Israeli Strikes Continue in Gaza Amid Heavy Rains, Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

Israeli forces carried out multiple airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, continuing near-daily violations of the United States-brokered ceasefire that came into effect on October 10. The ongoing attacks coincide with heavy winter rains, adding to the suffering of displaced Palestinians who are struggling to survive in makeshift camps.

Israeli airstrikes targeted locations north of Rafah and east of Khan Younis, the Maghazi camp in central Gaza, and Beit Lahiya in the north. Artillery shelling was also reported in Gaza’s southern and central regions, including Shujayea near Gaza City, striking close to tents housing displaced families.

Gaza’s Government Media Office reported that Israel has committed 969 ceasefire violations since October 10, resulting in the deaths of 418 civilians and injuries to more than 1,100.

Heavy rains and strong winds have destroyed tents and possessions in camps, leaving families exposed to the elements. “The situation on the ground continues to deteriorate as the rain continues,” Khoudary said, describing the trauma and anxiety faced by displaced Palestinians.

In camps east of Deir el-Balah, residents reported tents submerged in muddy water, ruining mattresses, blankets, and food supplies. Mohammed al-Louh said, “I took my family out, but I couldn’t even get a blanket, a mattress or a bag of flour. I have no way to sleep with my children or keep them warm.”

Another resident, Haitham Arafat, who lost his children and home to Israel’s attacks, said, “I fled to this place. Does this mean the war is over? No, we are still suffering. We haven’t slept for two days because of the heavy rain.”

Aid groups have repeatedly called on Israeli authorities to lift restrictions on humanitarian supplies, including shelter materials, to help families survive in the flooded camps. Officials have warned that the flooded tents and damaged infrastructure pose serious risks of disease, illness, and building collapses, with at least two deaths reported due to structural damage amid the storms.

Al Jazeera’s Ibrahim al-Khalili described the worsening conditions as a “new chapter of suffering” for Palestinians already trapped in a humanitarian crisis caused by ongoing military operations.