The key facts

  • The European Commission called on Israel to open full humanitarian access to Gaza due to flooding and cold weather
  • According to the EU, not all crossings are open for humanitarian aid; about 60% of those in need are in a critical condition
  • The EU has provided almost €700 million ($784 million) in aid since October 2023

Brussels linked the deteriorating situation in Gaza to winter weather and access restrictions

The European Commission on Monday, November 9, called on Israel to ensure full humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip, noting that severe flooding and worsening winter conditions are deepening the humanitarian crisis in the enclave. This was stated at a briefing in Brussels by European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrncirova, Anadolu reports.

What exactly did the European Commission say

“We are aware of the situation in Gaza, and obviously, if you live in a tent and the tent is full of water, the situation becomes much worse,” Hrncirova told journalists during the midday briefing. According to her, the EU has repeatedly called on the Israeli government, at all levels and at every opportunity, to allow full humanitarian access to the territory. She stressed that “not all crossings are open for humanitarian aid,” and that the restrictions are aggravating an already critical situation.

Scale of needs and EU assistance

The Commission spokesperson warned that flooding and harsh winter weather could expose displaced families to additional health risks, including disease and increased parasite infestations. According to her, the majority of Gaza's population needs shelter and non-food assistance, with about 60% of those in need in a critical condition. Hrncirova also recalled that since the start of the crisis in October 2023, the EU has provided Palestinians with almost €700 million ($784 million) in humanitarian aid. “We call for rapid, safe and unimpeded access into Gaza so that we can alleviate the suffering of people there,” the outlet quoted her as saying.

Context: weather and the consequences of the war

The statements came against the backdrop of a cyclone with cold air and heavy precipitation that hit the Gaza Strip and worsened conditions for thousands of displaced Palestinians. According to Anadolu, many families remain in worn-out tents without heating and adequate protection from rain and cold amid large-scale destruction of residential buildings and infrastructure. Citing Palestinian health authorities, the outlet reports that since October 2023, Israel's war in Gaza has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians, with over 175,000 wounded.