IDF Counters Gaza Flood-Equipment Allegation, Citing 91,000 Tents Delivered

Original report

The IDF responded on November 9 to an allegation by Gaza Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Basal that Israel was preventing the entry of equipment to address flooding. Its Arabic spokesperson channel cited the delivery of more than 91,000 tents and 8,200 trucks carrying shelter and winter-preparation equipment into the Gaza Strip. The military said it had previously identified Basal as an active Hamas member using documents belonging to the terrorist organization. It asked how his statements could be considered a neutral account. In a separate statement on Sunday, November 8, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories said it was monitoring humanitarian conditions after weekend rainfall and assessing needs with the United Nations and international organizations. COGAT said its Gaza Winterization Plan covered shelter, water, sanitation and health projects. It listed more than 91,000 tents and over 8,200 trucks carrying tarpaulins, blankets, winter clothing and other supplies since the plan began. COGAT also reported deliveries of 12 vacuum trucks for waste removal, thousands of vaccines, and fuel and engine oil for pumping facilities and other humanitarian installations. It said Gaza reconstruction could begin only after Hamas fully disarms, and accused Hamas of using civilian equipment for military purposes. COGAT said: “Israel will not permit the entry of equipment that could be used to develop terrorist capabilities.”