Three Weeks into Ceasefire, Gaza Shelter Aid Still Blocked as Winter Nears
Millions of essential shelter and non-food items remain stranded in Jordan, Egypt, and Israel, awaiting official approvals. Around 260,000 Palestinian families—nearly 1.5 million people—are left vulnerable as living conditions worsen.
Since the ceasefire began on 10 October, Israeli authorities have turned down 23 aid requests from nine humanitarian organisations. The blocked shipments include nearly 4,000 pallets of tents, sealing and framing kits, bedding, kitchen sets, and blankets.
“We have a very short chance to protect families from the winter rains and cold,” said Angelita Caredda, Middle East and North Africa Regional Director for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), host of the Shelter Cluster.
According to the NRC, Gaza should by now be receiving large-scale deliveries of building and relief materials, yet only a small portion has arrived. Humanitarian groups warn that the opportunity to prepare shelters for winter is quickly closing.
“The international community must act now to secure swift and unimpeded access,” added Caredda.
In 21 out of 23 denials, Israeli authorities claimed that the applicant organisations were “not authorised to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza,” even when some of them hold valid registration in Israel. Those recognised as authorised still face slow and non-transparent customs processes that delay urgent relief.
Author’s Summary
Over three weeks into the ceasefire, most humanitarian shelter supplies remain blocked outside Gaza, leaving hundreds of thousands at risk as winter sets in.