Gaza:Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has issued an urgent call for the immediate entry of humanitarian aid and essential supplies into the Gaza Strip as winter begins. The organization warns that the conditions for approximately two million people are deteriorating rapidly.
According to Jordan News Agency, MSF highlighted severe shortages in shelter, fuel, and medical supplies, which are exacerbating the humanitarian and health crisis in the region. The Shelter Cluster estimates that about 1.98 million people, or 94 percent of the population in Gaza, are living in crisis-level shelter conditions or worse. Over 400,000 individuals reside in displacement sites that are highly susceptible to flooding.
MSF has reported that the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicated in early October that approximately 44,000 people are taking refuge in more than 2,300 unsafe buildings. Families living in worn tents or damaged structures are at risk of disease, injury, and death. The entry of shelter supplies remains restricted, with the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) noting that while Israeli authorities approved some supplies in August, their entry was subsequently denied.
Further, NRC reported that the registration of 37 international humanitarian organizations, including MSF, was revoked by Israeli authorities in early 2026, blocking their supplies from entering Gaza. An MSF briefing from October highlighted a $186.6 million funding gap for delivering essential winter supplies. The World Food Programme (WFP) also announced funding cuts that would halt food and cash aid for 500,000 people and reduce daily hot meal provisions.
MSF emphasized the dire economic conditions many families face, with some unable to afford basic necessities such as blankets or cooking fuel. A rise in respiratory illnesses among children has been observed, with some MSF facilities recording 29,528 upper respiratory tract infections in January 2026. Unsafe practices such as burning wood, plastic, and waste for heating and cooking are prevalent due to the unavailability or high cost of safe fuel, further exacerbating health risks.
The lack of adequate water and sanitation facilities is complicating hygiene maintenance, with shortages of water and soap making it difficult to wash clothes and bedding, increasing the spread of diseases like scabies. Poor drainage, sewage exposure, and inadequate toilets further heighten infection risks.
MSF warned of the psychological toll on families facing repeated displacement and loss, compounded by fears of flooding and inability to keep warm. Psychological support programs are limited in effect due to the harsh living conditions.
MSF has called on Israeli authorities to allow the unhindered entry of crucial aid, including weather-resistant tents, tarpaulins, wood, blankets, fuel, medical supplies, and water, sanitation, and hygiene supplies. They also urged governments with influence over Israel to advocate for aid access and provide immediate, flexible funding for the winter response. Humanitarian organizations were encouraged to coordinate efforts in delivering shelter, flood protection, food, healthcare, and sanitation, and to help families find safer methods for cooking and heating.