REACTION: Gaza building collapse

Following the overnight collapse of a war-damaged building leaving 20 deaths and dozens trapped, rescue efforts are being severely hampered by Israel’s refusal to allow entry of the heavy machinery and equipment needed to save lives amidst the ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. 

Wassem Mushtaha, Oxfam’s Response Lead in Gaza, said: “Today’s death toll brings to 1,381 the number of Palestinian deaths in Gaza since the 10 October declaration last year.

“People are being pulled from the wreckage by rescuers working with their hands because the equipment that could save lives is simply not there. There are dozens of people, including children, under the rubble. We see emergency responses rolled out around the world in catastrophic moments when political leaders find the means to unite and save lives. Why not in Gaza?  There must be accountability and all crossings need to be opened unconditionally. Today. 

“Children did not die in this building collapse because nobody saw the risk. They died because of ongoing genocide, continued bombardment, blockade and mass forced displacement. People have been left without choice, with no safe alternatives. Families across Gaza are sheltering in unsafe, severely damaged, barely standing buildings, or in worn out tents and makeshift shelters, often in overcrowded camps where proper water supplies and sanitation services are limited.”

Oxfam’s recent report Building the Gaza Strip Anew estimates that Gaza’s $71 billion reconstruction will cost seven times all previous rebuilds combined. Rebuilding cannot begin while the tools, materials and access needed to do so are denied. 

The collapse of this building exposes not only the devastating legacy of Israel’s military assault, but the policies that are preventing recovery and placing civilians in danger every single day. Oxfam is calling for Israel to immediately open all Gaza’s available crossings and allow unconditional access to rescue equipment, emergency machinery, recovery materials and aid.