Gaza Storm Floods Displaced Camps as Residents Accuse Hamas of Hoarding Tents
Heavy rains flooding Gaza displacement camps have sparked local outrage, with residents accusing domestic authorities and Hamas of hoarding tents in containers to generate distressing media and raise funds.
Recent heavy rains in the Gaza Strip have flooded displaced persons camps, leaving numerous families without shelter as tents were submerged and tarpaulins blown away by strong winds. Videos circulating on social media captured the severe weather conditions, while simultaneously sparking sharp local criticism against domestic entities responsible for humanitarian aid distribution.
According to reports circulating across Gazan social media platforms since the weekend, high-quality tents and waterproof tarpaulins capable of providing adequate shelter are currently being stored in shipping containers rather than being distributed to those in need. Observers and residents allege that local actors and associations are deliberately withholding the supplies to maintain distressing imagery, capture viral footage, and leverage international sympathy for fundraising.
In one widely shared video, Gaza resident Zafar Zanoun criticized authorities for hoarding essential supplies during the storm. "They are storing tents and tarpaulins in containers to film trends. The storm has arrived, people are drowning in the sea, and in Al-Mawasi people are drowning," he stated, urging responsible parties to immediately distribute the equipment to suffering residents.
While Zanoun refrained from directly naming Hamas, the accusations emerge against the backdrop of the militant group's extensive control over the territory. Another surfaced video featured a father and son whose tent was flooded, openly directing their anger at Hamas. "Hamas claims they want to be the government? Here, Hamas members are having a good time while the public eats dirt," the father said, expressing fierce frustration over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and governance.
