DaysofPal – Gaza’s healthcare system has been left in ruins after nearly two years of systematic Israeli attacks that have decimated hospitals, clinics, and emergency services across the Strip. Health officials and aid agencies warn that the enclave is facing a total collapse, with tens of thousands wounded and no functioning medical infrastructure to treat them.
Since October 2023, Israeli assaults have wounded nearly 170,000 people in Gaza, according to Palestinian health authorities. Thousands now require long-term rehabilitation and treatment for catastrophic injuries, including amputations, paralysis, and blindness, but medical services are almost nonexistent.
According to Gaza’s government media office, Israel has destroyed or rendered unusable 38 hospitals, 96 healthcare centers, 197 ambulances, and 61 rescue and firefighting vehicles during what Palestinian officials describe as a genocidal war. Dozens of remaining health facilities have been forced to close due to bombardment, fuel shortages, or lack of medical supplies.
Dr. Munir al-Barash, Director-General of Gaza’s Ministry of Health, said the Strip’s health sector is facing a “total catastrophe” after the near-complete destruction of its medical infrastructure.
“The health system must be rebuilt from the ground up,” he said, adding that al-Rantisi Children’s Hospital, Gaza’s only pediatric facility, has been completely destroyed. “There are no pediatric services left in any hospital in Gaza City or the northern governorates,” he said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains “extremely critical” despite the recent truce between Israel and Hamas. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic urged the international community to act immediately to deliver medical supplies, fuel, and logistical support needed to keep remaining health facilities running.
“The pressure on hospitals will not ease overnight,” Jasarevic said. “We must bring in the largest possible amount of medical supplies now to ensure that health workers can continue providing care.”
Aid organizations report that one in four children in Gaza suffers from acute malnutrition, and that hunger is rapidly spreading throughout the region. At the same time, Gaza is also experiencing severe famine.
The Ministry of Health and several human rights organizations have repeatedly accused Israel of deliberately targeting Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure, warning that the ongoing blockade and closure of crossings are preventing the entry of essential medicines, equipment, and humanitarian aid.
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