GAZA — Heavy rains flooded dozens of tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis in southern Gaza on Saturday, deepening the humanitarian crisis facing families forced from their homes.

The Gaza Civil Defense said its teams responded after large numbers of tents in several areas of Al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis, were submerged in rainwater.

Since Friday, the Gaza Strip has been hit by a low-pressure system accompanied by cold air and heavy rainfall, worsening conditions for the 1.5 million displaced people in the enclave.

According to the Gaza Government Media Office, 93% of all displacement tents — 125,000 out of 135,000 — are no longer suitable for shelter due to weather damage and the impact of Israeli bombardment.

Israel continues to block the entry of shelter materials, including tents and mobile homes, in violation of its obligations under the ceasefire agreement that took effect on Oct. 10.

Phase one of the ceasefire, based on US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan, includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, alongside provisions for rebuilding Gaza and establishing a new governing mechanism without Hamas.

Israel has killed more than 69,000 people in Gaza — most of them women and children — since October 2023. — Agencies