Humanitarian crisis in al-Mawasi

The humanitarian crisis in al-Mawasi, a coastal area of Gaza, has escalated dramatically due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Initially designated as a humanitarian zone, al-Mawasi has become overwhelmed by displaced individuals seeking safety, leading to dire living conditions.

The area, which had no facilities to support human habitation before the war, has seen a massive influx of people—reportedly reaching up to a million—who have set up makeshift shelters using plastic sheeting and wooden boards. Despite being labeled a humanitarian zone, al-Mawasi has not been spared from violence; it has experienced bombings, including a particularly deadly strike in July that resulted in 90 fatalities. The destruction of infrastructure and the continuous threat of military actions have compounded the already critical situation, leaving residents with limited access to basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care. The conditions in al-Mawasi exemplify the broader humanitarian challenges faced by the population in Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict.