Number of displaced people in Gaza exceeds 187,518

The number of displaced people in Gaza now exceeds 187,518, and is expected to increase further as Israel continues to pound the besieged territory with airstrikes and artillery, the UN said.

Over 137,427 of the displaced people are taking shelter in UNRWA schools. But the facilities managed by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees are nearing capacity as Israel continues its heavy bombardment of the besieged enclave. 

The fighting has already forced the UN to close all 14 food distribution centres in Gaza —leaving half a million people without vital food aid, the UN said.

Since strikes began in Gaza on 7 October, 13 healthcare facilities have been hit.

Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have damaged three facilities used for water, sanitation and hygiene, undermining services to over 400,000 in Gaza city and the Northern Area of the Gaza Strip, the UN said.