The United Nations humanitarian office has reported that nearly 200,000 people, or nearly a tenth of the population, have fled their homes in Gaza since the start of hostilities. The displacement has escalated dramatically across the Gaza Strip.
The region is also poised for shortages of water and electricity due to a blockade. Damage to water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities has undermined services for more than 400,000 people. The Gaza Power Plant, now the only source of electricity, could run out of fuel within days.
The UN Spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said that the situation in Gaza and Israel is alarming, with many people displaced, injured, or killed. He gave the following details in New York:
In Gaza, more than 120,000 people have left their homes because of the violence and the destruction of buildings. They are staying in 83 schools run by UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.
The health care system in Gaza is under severe strain, as six health workers have died and four have been wounded. Seven health facilities and nine ambulances have also been damaged.
The water and sanitation services in Gaza have been affected by the damage, leaving more than 400,000 people without adequate access. The only source of electricity, the Gaza Power Plant, may run out of fuel soon.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has started to provide food assistance to up to 100,000 people in UNRWA schools. It also plans to reach up to 800,000 people in the next month, depending on funding. It needs $16.8 million for this purpose.
In Israel, there has also been mass displacement and damage to civilian property because of the conflict.
In Lebanon, the UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL) reported hearing explosions near Al-Boustan in the southwest on Monday afternoon. The Head of Mission and Force Commander, Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz, is in contact with both sides, urging them to avoid further escalation and loss of life.