As the Israel-Gaza conflict continues into another harsh winter, the humanitarian crisis deepens in the Palestinian enclave. On Monday, the United Nations Security Council officially backed a US-authored ceasefire plan for Gaza, which includes the proposed deployment of an international stabilisation force to restore order and facilitate relief work in the war-ravaged Strip.
However, the Palestinian group Hamas has rejected the resolution, arguing that it fails to address the core political and humanitarian demands put forward by Palestinians. Hamas leaders stress that while diplomatic moves are welcome, the bare minimum has not been met for Palestinian safety, sovereignty, and the right of return. The group continues to insist on a permanent ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal, and comprehensive humanitarian access—conditions it says are only partially offered in the current plan.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s displaced population faces increasing hardship as temperatures drop and flooding affects thousands. Humanitarian organizations report that at least 300,000 tents are desperately needed to provide shelter for the growing number of homeless families throughout the enclave.
Since Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began in October 2023 in response to Hamas-led attacks, the death toll in Gaza has soared to at least 69,483 Palestinians killed and 170,706 wounded, according to Gaza authorities. In Israel, the attacks on October 7, 2023, resulted in 1,139 deaths and the abduction of about 200 people.