UN Warns Over 800,000 Gazans at Risk from Flooding Amid Ongoing Political Stalemate
More than 800,000 people in the Gaza Strip are at risk from flooding as a severe winter storm hits the region, according to the United Nations. Camps are flooded, and buildings have begun collapsing under the impact of the storm.
The Gaza Strip remains entrenched in the first phase of Donald Trump's peace plan, under a US-imposed ceasefire. The territory continues to be divided, with hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their homes. Advancement to the next phase of the peace process depends on the resolution of hostage issues; Israel’s Prime Minister has stated that Hamas must return all Israeli hostages before progress can be made. Notably, Ran Gvili remains missing.
Displaced families are awaiting reconstruction and have expressed urgent needs for safer housing. However, plans and border openings necessary for rebuilding are stalled amid complex political conditions. Disarming Hamas and transferring security responsibilities to an international stabilization force are widely regarded as prerequisites for reconstruction to proceed. Both sides remain cautious given the delicate political pressures involved.
The United States continues to apply pressure to move forward, with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu showing openness to the deployment of an international force. Nonetheless, time is running short as Hamas appears to be reorganizing.
There are also plans to clear rubble and establish temporary housing in Rafah for Gazans living in areas held by Israel. This effort could require crossing into Israeli-controlled zones and subject residents to security checks; some have already done so. The Gaza frontier is divided by a yellow line, which Israel refers to as a "new border line," amid ongoing debates about a potential long-term withdrawal.
In a signal of intent to advance the peace process, former President Trump plans to announce the membership of a Board of Peace for Gaza early next year.
