DaysofPal—The Gaza Ministry of Health has announced a staggering 4,500 cases of amputations, affecting both upper and lower limbs, since the onset of Israeli genocide in October 2023.
Zaher Al-Wahidi, the director of the health ministry’s information unit, confirmed that these injuries were directly caused by the ongoing Israeli airstrikes and ground assaults on the Gaza Strip.
“By the end of 2024, we recorded 4,500 cases of amputation due to the relentless Israeli attacks,” Al-Wahidi told Anadolu Agency.
Among the victims, approximately 800 are children, making up about 18% of the total cases. Additionally, 540 women have been affected, comprising around 12% of the amputees.
These numbers highlight the disproportionate impact of the violence on Gaza’s most vulnerable populations.
Al-Wahidi further emphasized that these figures provide a glimpse into the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, particularly for children and women, who are bearing the brunt of the war.
“The numbers are horrifying, and the toll on the civilian population is immense,” he said.
Health experts and government officials in Gaza anticipate that the actual number of amputations, especially among children, is likely far higher than what has been reported.
Due to the ongoing nature of the attacks, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, it has been difficult to compile accurate statistics.
The lack of medical resources, exacerbated by the ongoing blockade that has lasted more than 18 years, is only worsening the situation.
As the violence continues, Al-Wahidi warned that the numbers are expected to rise. “The situation is critical, and with the relentless attacks, the pressure on our healthcare system is growing,” he stated, referring to the already severe shortage of medical supplies and equipment.
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