Gaza: At least 20 killed in deadly building collapse, search for survivors continues

Search and rescue operations continued in Gaza City on Wednesday following the collapse of a bombed-out building that killed at least 20 people, according to reports.The incident has highlighted the precarious situation of displaced Palestinians across the Gaza Strip who shelter wherever they can, including in structures damaged during the war between Israel and Hamas fighters. “I am devastated by reports of people trapped under the rubble,” the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ramiz Alakbarov, said in a statement.Roughly 100 people, including 50 children, were living in the building at the time, he added. Rush to supportThe senior aid official commended the humanitarian community which quickly mobilized to support the emergency response. So far, Egypt has provided heavy machinery while the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are set to deliver relief items. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) also deployed available machinery and workers to support rescue efforts.“Through the limited stocks available in Gaza, we will support survivors with health, shelter and other critical items and services,” Mr. Alakbarov said. “Lives may still be saved, and every ...