Seven infants freeze to death amid Gaza humanitarian crisis

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reported on Sunday that at least seven newborns have died in Gaza due to harsh winter conditions and inadequate shelter.

UNRWA expressed alarm on X, stating, “Cold weather and lack of shelter are causing the deaths of newborns in Gaza. 7,700 newborns lack lifesaving care. To date, at least seven babies have reportedly died.”

In a broader condemnation, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the grave impact of a recent Israeli army raid that incapacitated Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last operational major healthcare facility in northern Gaza.

UNRWA noted that this raid marked one of 50 verified attacks on or near the hospital since October 2024. Additionally, WHO continues to demand the release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital’s director, who remains detained.

The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, described by critics as genocidal, has claimed over 45,800 lives, predominantly women and children, since the October 2023 Hamas-led cross-border attack. Despite a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire, hostilities persist.

In November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Simultaneously, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice, amplifying international scrutiny of its actions in Gaza.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with both global institutions and local advocates calling for urgent intervention to save lives and uphold human rights.