As of January 8, 2025, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached critical levels amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Residents, such as Zahra and her family, have been displaced multiple times, seeking refuge in partially destroyed homes in the Shati refugee camp.
International pressure is mounting on both Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire agreement. This comes as Israel continues its military operations, targeting over 100 sites in Gaza in response to rocket fire from Hamas. The conflict, which began escalating in October, has left many civilians in desperate conditions.
Severe winter weather has exacerbated the situation, flooding makeshift shelters and leading humanitarian organizations to report insufficient aid reaching the population. An Israeli airstrike on January 7 reportedly killed guards protecting aid convoys in southern Gaza.
The northern region of Gaza, particularly Jabalia, has become a focal point of Israeli military action, with claims that Hamas has regrouped there. However, humanitarian groups argue that there are no safe areas left in Gaza, as continuous displacement worsens the crisis.
The United Nations estimates that between 10,000 and 15,000 individuals remain in northern Gaza, with much of the area believed to be devastated. There are concerns that Israel intends to establish a buffer zone in the region post-conflict. The Israeli military denies any plans to depopulate northern Gaza.
Recent statements from Israeli parliamentary members have called for the destruction of all water, food, and energy sources in the region, reflecting a growing frustration over the ongoing conflict. Local residents report severe shortages of essential supplies, complicating humanitarian access.
Gaza is now effectively divided by the Nezarim corridor, complicating movements for Palestinians. Reports indicate that unarmed individuals attempting to return north have faced deadly consequences.
According to the UN, nearly 90% of Gaza's population of approximately 2.1 million has been displaced. The future remains uncertain for many, with families like Zahra's left to hope for an end to the violence and a return to their homes, even if they are destroyed.