Gaza: The number of infant deaths attributed to the ongoing cold wave in the Gaza Strip has increased to six, according to reports from Palestinian medical officials. Munir Al-Bursh, the director-general of Gaza’s health authorities, stated in a press release that the total child fatalities due to low temperatures since winter began now stands at 15. He expressed concern over a deepening health crisis, noting the destruction of medical infrastructure hampers healthcare services in the area.
Al-Bursh highlighted that hospitals, especially pediatric units, are struggling to deliver vital medical care because of significant resource shortages and regular power outages. Just a few days ago, Saeed Salah, the director of the Friends of the Patient Charitable Hospital in Gaza City, mentioned that at least three infants had recently died from extreme cold and the lack of adequate heating in their living conditions.
Gaza has been enduring severe cold weather recently, with strong winds, heavy rains, and low temperatures. This harsh climate has displaced hundreds of families and flooded many makeshift camps, worsening the hardships faced by thousands of residents. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has previously issued warnings about the escalating dangers for newborns in Gaza, indicating that approximately 7,700 infants lack the necessary medical care to survive amid these deteriorating conditions and a critical shortage of safe shelters.