The Gaza Health Ministry has issued a dire warning about a growing crisis of blindness in the besieged enclave, as Israeli airstrikes and a severe blockade continue to decimate the health sector.
According to a statement released Sunday, around 1,500 people have lost their vision since the war began in October 2023, and nearly 4,000 more are at risk due to the collapse of ophthalmic services and a critical shortage of essential medical supplies.
The ministry described the situation as catastrophic, saying the entire healthcare system is under “unprecedented pressure.” Most hospitals and clinics, the statement noted, have been damaged or forced to close amid relentless bombardment, fuel shortages, and the continued blockade on humanitarian aid.
The Health Ministry called on the United Nations and international aid organizations to intervene immediately to prevent a total collapse of Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure.
Abdel Salam Sabah, director of the Gaza Eye Hospital, said in a press statement that the facility is barely functioning due to the lack of basic surgical equipment.
“The remaining tools are being reused excessively, increasing the risk of contamination and threatening patients’ lives,” he said.
Sabah added that “the hospital currently operates with only three worn-out surgical scissors, making further eye surgeries nearly impossible,” and warned that unless emergency supplies arrive, all surgical procedures may be halted.
Local medical sources say eye injuries from explosions and flying shrapnel are among the most common war-related injuries, particularly impacting women and children.
Humanitarian groups have long warned that Gaza’s health system is operating far below minimum standards due to the continued blockade and damage caused by Israeli attacks.
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