Gaza’s healthcare system is facing collapse, with a top health official warning of a “tragic and horrific” situation inside hospitals due to severe shortages of medical supplies. Munir al-Barsh, director-general of Gaza’s Ministry of Health, stated that the ongoing restrictions on aid are directly impacting the ability of doctors to treat critical cases.
Health System Under Strain
The health crisis is unfolding amid what has been described as a harsh siege on Gaza. Doctors have repeatedly warned that their ability to save lives is hampered by Israel’s restrictions on essential medical supplies. Despite a ceasefire brokered with United States support in October, the agreed-upon quantities of medical aid are not being consistently allowed into the enclave.
Al-Barsh reported that approximately three-quarters of needed medical supplies are unavailable, with critical shortages of surgical consumables, solutions, anesthetics, gauze, and dialysis supplies. Power outages and a lack of generators are further exacerbating the challenges.
Beyond Immediate Wounds
The impact extends beyond those wounded by attacks. Approximately 4,000 glaucoma patients risk permanent blindness due to a lack of treatment. Nearly 40,000 displaced pregnant women are living in substandard shelters, putting both their health and their unborn children at risk. An estimated 320,000 children under five are facing the threat of malnutrition.
A system exists for transferring patients outside Gaza for treatment, but waiting lists are extensive, and patients are dying while awaiting approval. At least 1,156 patients have died while waiting for permission to travel. Nearly 20,000 patients are currently on waiting lists, with 18,500 approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) but awaiting Israeli security clearance. Approximately 4,300 of those patients are children.
Ongoing Conflict and Casualties
Al-Barsh demanded the immediate opening of border crossings to allow the flow of humanitarian aid and facilitate patient transfers. He warned that further delays could result in additional deaths. During the ongoing conflict, nearly all of Gaza’s hospitals and healthcare facilities have been attacked, with at least 125 facilities damaged, including 34 hospitals. More than 1,700 health workers have been killed, and Israel continues to hold 95 Palestinian doctors and medical workers, including 80 from Gaza, captive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current state of Gaza’s hospitals?
According to Munir al-Barsh, the situation inside Gaza’s hospitals is “tragic and horrific” due to a severe lack of medical supplies and ongoing attacks.
How many patients are awaiting medical evacuation?
Nearly 20,000 patients in Gaza are on waiting lists for travel to receive medical treatment, with approximately 4,300 of those being children.
What specific medical supplies are in short supply?
There are widespread shortages of solutions, anesthetics, gauze, and dialysis supplies, as well as surgical consumables. Approximately three-quarters of the supplies needed are unavailable.
As Gaza’s health system teeters on the brink, what role might international pressure play in ensuring access to essential medical care for all those in need?
