Palestinian journalist Bisan has taken to Instagram to highlight the severity of the ongoing heat wave in Gaza, stressing that while high temperatures are a global concern, the situation in the besieged strip is drastically different.

According to Bisan, the heat wave has persisted for over nine to ten days, with temperatures constantly exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Many displaced Palestinians are living in makeshift shelters made from plastic sheets or dark wool fabrics, which trap heat and make the temperature inside the tents about three degrees hotter than outside. Stepping outside exposes them to heatstroke, but remaining inside feels suffocating.

She explained that there is nowhere for people to escape the heat. With no electricity, there are no fans, no air conditioners, and not even cold water. Clean drinking water is scarce, and most people rely on unsafe sources. Public spaces with shade or fresh air are non-existent, and the safety of civilians is constantly under threat.

Bisan linked the worsening climate in Gaza to environmental destruction caused by Israel’s continuous bombardment. She said Israeli forces bomb everything from homes to schools, hospitals, refugee camps, media offices, vehicles, and even large crowds waiting for food. The use of munitions releases harmful gases such as phosphorous and nitrogen into the air, while the heat from the blasts further intensifies already dangerous temperatures.

The consequences are dire. Breathing has become more difficult, and many, especially children, are developing skin problems and infections caused by the combination of heat, dust, and gunpowder residue.

“This heat wave has reached Gaza at a time when its people are living in tents without sufficient water, and at a time when Israel is melting the world and destroying the environment,” she said, criticizing the silence and inaction of the international community.