Struggles Amidst Ongoing Conflict in Gaza

As the war in Gaza enters its second year, the situation for displaced civilians has become increasingly dire. The prices of ready-made tents and basic supplies necessary for constructing even the most rudimentary shelters have skyrocketed. Essential items such as warm blankets, clothing, and firewood have become either incredibly scarce or prohibitively expensive for many. Finding a vacant apartment is a distant hope for most of those who have been uprooted from their homes. Furthermore, a significant number of individuals are left without any source of income.

Consequently, those living in tattered tents and makeshift shelters throughout the enclave are preparing for a harsh, rainy winter. Many fear this season will be even more challenging than the last. The vast majority of the roughly two million residents in Gaza have faced displacement at least once due to the ongoing conflict, compounding the suffering of a population already enduring relentless waves of Israeli bombardment and rampant lawlessness.

Last week, the Israeli government issued additional evacuation orders for residents in northern Gaza. Simultaneously, the expansion of military operations in the southern regions resulted in the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, yet there seems to be little progress toward resolving the conflict.

Among those affected is Mahmoud Abu Helal, a 33-year-old pharmacist who has been sharing a leaky, self-constructed tent with 12 of his relatives since fleeing the southern city of Rafah in May when the Israeli ground invasion commenced. Initially believing they would return home within a few days, Mahmoud and his family only packed summer clothing, leaving them unprepared for the harsh realities of their current situation.