Heavy rains kill at least 10 in Gaza: WHO

By Anadolu staff

ISTANBUL (AA) – The head of the World Health Organization said Saturday that at least 10 people in the Gaza Strip have died in the last 24 hours from heavy rainfall, as thousands of displaced Palestinian families shelter in tents with little protection from harsh winter conditions.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on social media that the combination of exposure, inadequate water and sanitation, and overcrowded living conditions is likely to lead to a surge in acute respiratory infections, including influenza, as well as hepatitis and diarrheal diseases.

He said the WHO continues to face obstacles in delivering laboratory reagents and diagnostic equipment to Gaza, noting that many supplies have been denied entry after being classified as dual-use items.

Tedros called for the urgent entry of the essential materials, saying they are critical for the timely detection, response and treatment of people facing disease outbreaks in the enclave.

Israel has killed more than 70,300 victims, mostly women and children, and injured over 171,000 in attacks in Gaza since October 2023, which have continued despite a truce.

The Israeli army has repeatedly violated the ceasefire, killing at least 386 Palestinians and injuring 1,018 since the deal took effect Oct. 10.