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Gaza Crisis Deepens: Airstrikes and Flooding Leave Civilians in Despair
In a devastating escalation of violence and natural disaster, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed at least three Palestinians, while torrential rains have submerged displacement camps, leaving thousands homeless and struggling to survive. The dual crises have intensified suffering in the besieged enclave, where residents face relentless violence, freezing temperatures, and collapsing infrastructure.
Deadly Airstrikes Amid Ceasefire Negotiations
Palestinian health officials confirm that an Israeli airstrike hit a home in central Gaza’s Al-Maghazi refugee camp late Tuesday, killing three civilians—including a woman and a teenager—and injuring others.
The Israeli military claimed the strike targeted “terror operatives” but provided no evidence. The attack comes during fragile ceasefire talks mediated by Egypt and Qatar. Hamas accuses Israel of undermining peace efforts, while Israel vows to continue military operations until hostages from the October 7 attacks are freed. Since October, the war has claimed over 28,000 Palestinian lives, with no resolution in sight.
Severe Flooding Worsens Humanitarian Catastrophe
As bombs fall, heavy rains have turned Gaza’s displacement camps into swamps. Over 1.7 million Palestinians (80% of Gaza’s population) now live in flooded tents, with no dry shelter, clean water, or medical supplies.
“We fled the bombs, but now we’re drowning in rainwater,” said Um Mohammed, a mother of four in Rafah. “Our children are freezing, and disease is spreading.”
Aid groups warn of a cholera outbreak as sewage mixes with floodwaters. The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) calls the situation “apocalyptic,” with food and medicine shortages pushing Gaza closer to famine.
Global Outcry and Demand for Ceasefire
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the crisis, stating: “Gaza is becoming uninhabitable. The world must act.” South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has also spotlighted Palestinian suffering.
Despite calls for aid, Israeli blockades and fighting restrict deliveries. The U.S. and allies face pressure to enforce a ceasefire, but Israel insists military action will continue until Hamas is dismantled.
A Population Pushed to the Brink
With no safe zones, Gaza’s civilians endure war, starvation, disease, and now flooding. As international responses falter, survivors ask: How much longer can they hold on?
Follow [NextMinuteNews] for real-time updates on Gaza.
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