The Gaza Strip is in desperate need of at least 60,000 mobile homes and 200,000 tents to shelter the hundreds of thousands of families who have been forcibly displaced due to Israel’s relentless aggression.

In a statement on Friday morning, Salama Ma’rouf, head of the Government Media Office (GMO), highlighted that only 12 mobile homes had been allowed into Gaza, and these were reserved exclusively for international organizations, leaving displaced Palestinian families without critical shelter. He added that less than half the required tents have been received, and no mobile homes intended for families have been permitted.

Ma’rouf condemned Israel’s behavior, describing it as procrastination and evasion of its responsibilities under international agreements. He accused the Israeli occupation of intentionally worsening the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza by obstructing the entry of basic relief supplies, including shelter and healthcare necessities.

He further emphasized that this deliberate blockade is part of Israel’s broader campaign to impose collective punishment on the Palestinian people, exacerbating the suffering caused by its brutal military operations and the destruction of homes.

Ma’rouf called on the international community and mediators to take urgent action to end Israel’s blackmail and ensure the immediate delivery of critical relief and shelter supplies to Gaza. He urged for the swift convening of an international conference to address the reconstruction of Gaza and the provision of humanitarian aid.

He also appealed to the upcoming Arab summit in Saudi Arabia to adopt a bold resolution ensuring the 24-hour opening of the Rafah crossing, enabling the uninterrupted flow of relief and reconstruction materials. Ma’rouf stressed the urgency of declaring the Gaza Strip a disaster zone, urging Arab and international leaders to respond to Gaza’s cries for help and stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their struggle for survival and dignity. (ILKHA)