In southern Gaza, extreme cold has claimed the lives of at least four infants in recent weeks, as temperatures plunge below 10 degrees Celsius, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

The deaths, attributed to hypothermia, highlight the devastating impact of winter on an already vulnerable population, as ongoing conflict has left many families in overcrowded, inadequate shelters without sufficient heating or blankets. With health officials reporting daily admissions for hypothermia and aid organizations struggling to deliver critical supplies, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is increasingly dire, particularly for infants coping with health issues heightened by the stress of war.

The plight of infants in Gaza has become more acute as hypothermia, a condition that poses a serious risk to young children, rapidly spreads during this winter season. Infants are particularly susceptible because their small body sizes make it much harder for them to maintain body heat. Health experts warn that when body temperatures drop to dangerously low levels, it can quickly become a life-threatening situation.

Recent reports from hospitals indicate that health officials are admitting one or two cases of hypothermia daily among the infant population. This trend not only underscores the immediate medical needs of young children but also draws attention to the broader context of ongoing stress and trauma stemming from the war that erupted following the October 7, 2023 attacks. That event has had devastating implications, including widespread displacement, destruction, and subsequent shortages of essential resources.

The humanitarian crisis has also caused many families to find themselves in precarious living conditions. In Gaza, where resources are already stretched thin, households frequently consist of multiple members forced to share a few inadequate blankets for warmth. This lack of adequate cover has intensified the risk for infants, as they are often unable to regulate their body temperature effectively when exposed to such cold.

Adding to these challenges, many infants and young children suffer from health issues that further increase their vulnerability to hypothermia. Conditions related to stress, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, render them less able to withstand the rigors of extreme cold. Medical professionals are hard pressed in their efforts to address these vulnerabilities, particularly when resources are already limited due to the ongoing conflict.

Aid organizations operating in Gaza have encountered severe restrictions, hampering their ability to deliver essential winter supplies. With limited access to blankets and warm clothing, the organizations find it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of the most affected in the population — namely infants and young children. Appeals for assistance are met with growing urgency as the situation deteriorates.

In summary, the combination of extreme cold, inadequate shelter, dwindling resources, and increasing numbers of vulnerable infants paints a bleak picture of life for families in southern Gaza. As the conflict continues to unfold, and with winter conditions compounding these hardships, a coordinated response involving the local authorities, humanitarian organizations, and the international community is critical to protect the lives of young children in the region.