COGAT rejects Hamas claims, says 91,000 tents delivered to Gaza for winter floods

Israeli officials rejected Hamas accusations that Israel was unprepared for winter flooding in Gaza, stating that 91,000 new tents, waterproof tarps, and 9,000 truckloads of clothing and blankets had been delivered to the enclave. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) coordinated these supplies with the UN ahead of the storm. Heavy rains on Saturday flooded displacement camps, damaging tents and leaving families without shelter. Hamas reported approximately 70,000 tents flooded within 12 hours, with initial damage estimated at $3 million, and launched a social media campaign blaming Israel. Gaza's Civil Defense said it received 2,166 distress calls but could only respond to 218 due to equipment shortages. Security officials stated that permanent building reconstruction and mobile homes will not be permitted until Hamas disarms and the Gaza Strip is demilitarized, accusing Hamas of exploiting aid to rebuild its military wing. They noted the current situation is better than previous winters, and COGAT is awaiting the formation of a new Gaza government to determine reconstruction policy.