In recent developments from the Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical officials have reported the tragic deaths of at least six infants due to hypothermia over the course of the past two weeks. Amid these reports, a U.N. representative has pointed out that the Trump administration’s suspension of funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) has adversely impacted financial support for crucial operations in the region.
The tenuous ceasefire established last month brought a temporary halt to the 15-month-long conflict between Israel and the Hamas militant group. Despite this pause in hostilities, countless individuals remain in dire conditions, residing in overcrowded tent encampments or damaged structures with inadequate protection from the harsh winter cold. Temperatures have sharply dropped in recent days, exacerbating the plight of these vulnerable populations.
Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, the WHO representative for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, highlighted that the suspension of funds has left various critical areas underfunded. These include Emergency Medical Team (EMT) operations, rehabilitation of health facilities, partnerships with organizations, and the execution of medical evacuations.
Amid the ongoing humanitarian challenges, Dr. Ahmed al-Farah, leading the pediatric department at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, disclosed the arrival of a two-month-old infant’s body on Tuesday. Additional cases were reported where two other infants received treatment for frostbite, and one was subsequently discharged. Saeed Saleh from the Patient’s Friends Hospital in Gaza City noted the deaths of five infants, aged one month or younger, from cold-related issues in the past fortnight. Zaher al-Wahedi, from the Gaza Health Ministry, reported that this winter witnessed 15 deaths attributed to hypothermia.
In a separate but related event, Agam Berger, a former Israeli hostage, recounted her experience of captivity in Gaza and credited her faith for her resilience. Berger, seized by Hamas during their raid on October 7, 2023, detailed her 16-month ordeal in radio interviews, noting limited resources and survival in confined conditions. During key Jewish observances, like Hanukkah, captors permitted religious symbols, bolstering her faith.
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam declared that only national armed forces should protect the country from threats. This proclamation comes in the wake of conflict with Israel and ongoing debates over Hezbollah’s arsenal. Salam insisted on state sovereignty in defensive capacities and emphasized the state’s exclusive right to armament.
The financial strain in Gaza is further compounded by the withholding of $46 million due to the Trump administration’s hold on WHO funding. Dr. Rik Peeperkorn underscored the consequences of this decision, noting that it has left critical health operations facing financial shortages. Yet, he assured that efforts continue unabated to provide essential services and interventions.
Despite the global implications of these funding cuts, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic noted a lack of comprehensive data on the worldwide impact of the U.S.’s funding decisions on WHO operations. As circumstances unfold within these geopolitical hotspots, stakeholders continue to navigate complex humanitarian and political landscapes.
