The situation in Gaza is dire and the world needs to take notice. The regional directors of UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO have expressed their deep concern at the reports of numerous deaths, including those of children, in facilities across Gaza city and other northern areas of the Strip. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society has reported that Al-Quds, the second largest hospital in Gaza, is effectively out of service due to fuel shortages, with contact with the facility being sporadic at best.
The lack of communication at Al Shifa Hospital, the largest in Gaza, has caused major concern as reported by the WHO. The health ministry is stating that five wounded patients have died due to a lack of fuel for operations. Furthermore, two babies in the intensive care unit have also died. This severe situation was made worse with water, food, and electricity being cut off.
The growing concern has caused WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to express grave concern for the safety of both staff and patients. The Israeli military has repeatedly denied targeting hospitals, while health officials have reported intense hostilities are surrounding hospitals preventing safe access for health staff, the injured, and other patients.
The escalation has been devastating, as the healthcare infrastructure in Gaza has been under massive strain due to shortages of water, food, and fuel. The regional directors of UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO have pointed out that more than half of the hospitals in the Gaza Strip are closed, with the remainder facing immense challenges. With over 36 days of attacks on healthcare in Gaza, the toll on both lives and the healthcare system has been immense.
The directors have made a plea for decisive international action to secure an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. They emphasize the need for unimpeded and safe access to provide fuel, medical supplies, and water.
The Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory has also warned of public health crises emerging and called for urgent humanitarian operations to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
