The Board of Peace, a US-backed body formed to implement Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan, has warned of an “immediate humanitarian emergency” in the Gaza Strip following severe seasonal flooding. The organization, which monitors the ceasefire agreement established in October 2025, issued a statement on Monday criticising both Israel and Hamas for failing to meet their respective obligations.
Heavy rains over the weekend swamped tens of thousands of tents and makeshift shelters, where approximately 1.4 million people—nearly 65% of Gaza’s population—are currently residing. The flooding led to a fatal incident on Sunday in the central Strip, where four people, including three children and one woman, died after a sand embankment collapsed onto their tents. Displaced residents reported that their remaining food, bedding, and supplies have been destroyed by sewage overflow and water damage.
The Board stated that it has repeatedly urged the Israeli government to authorise the entry of essential materials for water, sanitation, and temporary housing. The group described Israel’s response as “insufficient,” noting that delays in permitting these supplies have exacerbated the crisis. However, the Board also held Hamas accountable, stating that the group's refusal to disarm and transfer governing authority has compounded the suffering of civilians.
Israel’s military body, Cogat, maintained that it has been working on a winter preparedness plan alongside the Board of Peace and international partners. According to Israeli officials, more than 91,000 tents and over 8,200 trucks carrying blankets, winter clothing, and tarpaulins have already entered the territory. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs further alleged that Hamas is responsible for infrastructure failures, claiming the militant group has repurposed water pipes for rocket production.
Hamas rejected the accusations, stating that the Board of Peace’s comments provided a “distorted account” of the situation. The group argued that Israeli restrictions remain the primary obstacle to the entry of essential recovery materials. Meanwhile, the UN’s humanitarian agency, OCHA, noted that over 150,000 tents are currently held outside Gaza, awaiting entry permits.
Key facts
- The Gaza Strip is currently experiencing severe winter flooding affecting thousands of makeshift shelters.
- Four people, including three children and one woman, were killed when an embankment collapsed Sunday.
- The Board of Peace reports 65% of Gaza's population is living in tents or temporary shelters.
- Israel reports facilitating the entry of 91,000 tents and 8,200 truckloads of winter supplies.
- The UN says over 150,000 tents are ready for delivery but are delayed by entry restrictions.
Background
Under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement, Hamas committed to relinquishing weapons and governing power in exchange for a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, who currently occupy approximately 60% of the Gaza Strip. The implementation of this plan has stalled as Israel insists on total disarmament before further troop withdrawals occur.
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