Gaza’s medical system is on the verge of collapse due to the Israel-Palestine conflict. With shortages of supplies and attacks on hospitals, the humanitarian crisis has become catastrophic.
As the Israel-Palestine conflict rages on, the Gaza Strip is facing a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions. The local medical system has been pushed to the brink of collapse, leaving countless civilians in desperate need of medical assistance.
The Dire State of Gaza’s Healthcare
According to Gaza’s health ministry head, Munir al-Bursh, the medical system in Gaza is on the verge of collapse. Only 17 of the 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are currently partially functional, and the remaining ones are struggling to cope with the overwhelming number of patients. Nasser Medical Complex and Al-Amral Hospital, the last two major referral hospitals in Khan Younis, are operating far beyond their capacity. The shortage of beds, medicines, and medical supplies is so severe that many patients are being turned away.
Systematic Destruction and Blockades
The destruction of Gaza’s medical system is not accidental but systematic. Israeli military operations have directly targeted hospitals and medical facilities. The WHO has recorded 28 attacks on healthcare in Gaza during this period and 697 since October 2023. In addition, the long-term blockade by Israel has cut off the supply of essential medical resources. For the past six months, Israel has banned 430 types of basic food from entering Gaza, and this restriction continues. The lack of fuel also means that hospitals cannot operate generators, further crippling their ability to provide care.
Devastating Impact on Civilians
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is taking a heavy toll on civilians, especially children. On average, about 28 children die every day in Gaza due to the lack of medical treatment or hunger. The situation is so dire that al-Bursh has accused Israel of "organized genocide". The number of deaths is likely much higher than the reported figures, as many bodies are still under the rubble or have not been counted. The psychological trauma of the people in Gaza is also immeasurable, with the constant fear of bombings and the inability to access basic healthcare.
International Calls for Action
The international community has expressed deep concern about the situation in Gaza. The WHO has repeatedly called for the protection of hospitals and the unimpeded delivery of medical supplies. The UN relief chief has called for decisive action to prevent genocide in Gaza. However, so far, the international community’s response has been insufficient. The aid that has entered Gaza is only a fraction of what is needed. There is an urgent need for the international community to take more effective measures to pressure Israel to end the blockade and allow full access to humanitarian aid.
In conclusion, the collapse of Gaza’s medical system is a tragic consequence of the Israel-Palestine conflict. The world cannot stand by and watch as the people of Gaza suffer. Immediate action is needed to save lives and restore the basic dignity of the people in Gaza.