Unrwa calls for entry of shelter supplies into Gaza amid wintry conditions

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa) has urged for the entry of sheltering materials into Gaza as heavy rains engulfed tents of displaced people across the enclave.

“Winter has come to Gaza,” Unrwa said in a post on X.

“Winter rains in Gaza are making conditions even more desperate. Families taking shelter anywhere they can, including in makeshift tents," the post read.

It added that Unrwa has the necessary supplies waiting in warehouses outside Gaza. "Let us bring them in," the agency urged.

Israel had banned Unrwa, the UN's main humanitarian provider to Palestinians, from operating in the territory it controls last year, claiming a number of its employees were members of Hamas.

The agency reported that, as of 25 October, Israel is continuing to block its staff and humanitarian aid from entering Gaza.

Despite this, the organisation reported that "around 12,000 of our staff continue to deliver healthcare, psychosocial support and education to the people, often under unimaginable conditions."

On 22 October, the International Court of Justice ruled that Israel's ban on Unrwa and its restrictions on aid to Gaza and the occupied West Bank are inconsistent with international law.

Winter rains in #Gaza are making conditions even more desperate.

Families taking shelter anywhere they can, including in makeshift tents.

Shelter supplies are urgently needed. UNRWA has those supplies to help people get through winter.

Let us bring them in. pic.twitter.com/3hWTHsMF84

— UNRWA (@UNRWA) November 15, 2025