Gaza’s Scorching Summer: A Crisis Within a Crisis
Gaza summer heat crisis: The relentless heat intensifies suffering in the war-torn region, worsening the humanitarian emergency. The seven children of Rida Abu Hadayed’s relocated family are sweating in a canvas tent in Khan Younis due to the extreme heat.
With temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) and no electricity or clean water, survival has become a daily battle.
“They cannot sleep. They keep crying all day until the sun sets,” Rida said, trying to cool her children with paper scraps.
No Water, No Fuel, No Relief
Across Gaza, water shortages are reaching catastrophic levels:
- 93% of households face severe water shortages.
- Only 40% of water facilities are operational.
- Fuel blockades prevent desalination plants and water pumps from running.
UNICEF has warned that without fuel access, children could die of thirst.
“Water is very difficult to get,” said Youssef Hadayed, pouring the last few drops on his children’s skin to keep them cool.
Israel’s Blockade Strangles Aid
Israel’s near-total blockade over the last three months has paralyzed Gaza’s infrastructure. Though limited aid resumed in May, fuel remains largely barred—crippling access to water, medicine, and sanitation.
“Our lives in the tent are miserable,” Yousef added. “It’s not just the heat—it’s the hunger, thirst, and fear.”
Disease, Flies, and Mosquitoes Endanger Lives
- In addition to causing pain, the summer heat also encourages sickness, as flies and mosquitoes swarm tent sites.
- There is no waste collection, thus garbage accumulates.
- In the hot, filthy circumstances, children suffer.
“We are awake all night, dying from mosquito bites,” said Mohammed al-Awini, 23. “We are the most tired people in the world.”
Children Face the Worst of the Crisis
For mothers like Reham Abu Hadayed, the fear of losing a child to heat or disease is constant.
“I don’t have enough money to buy medicine,” she said, watching over her four children in a stifling tent.
Source: AP News
