Heavy rains in Gaza kill 10 amid Israeli attacks

Heavy rains have killed at least 10 people in the besieged Palestinian territory of Gaza in a single day, TRT World reported, citing World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
In a message on social media on Saturday (December 13), the WHO director-general warned that open-air living, inadequate water and sanitation facilities and overcrowding pose a risk of rapid spread of acute respiratory infections, especially influenza, hepatitis and diarrheal diseases.
He said that the WHO is still facing major obstacles in sending laboratory chemicals and diagnostic equipment to Gaza. He also noted that Israel is not allowing the entry of many essential equipment, labeling them as “dual-use” goods. Tedros called for the urgent entry of these essential supplies into Gaza, saying they are crucial for the rapid detection of disease outbreaks, effective response and treatment of those affected.
It is worth noting that the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza since October 2023 has killed more than 70,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children. In addition, more than 171,000 people have been injured during this period. Despite the ceasefire in place, the occupation forces have continued this violence. Since the ceasefire agreement came into effect on October 10, the Israeli army has violated the ceasefire multiple times. At least 386 Palestinians have been killed and 1,018 injured.