The health system in Gaza is facing severe challenges and approaching the brink of collapse, according to officials from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The situation is exacerbated by the escalating conflict in the southern part of the Palestinian enclave, while the northern region remains under strict control.
Richard Peeperkorn, WHO representative on the occupied Palestinian territory, highlighted the dire circumstances, stating that Gaza’s health system has dwindled from 36 functioning hospitals to only 11 partially functioning ones after 66 days of combat.
He described the northern part of Gaza as a “wasteland” with extensive devastation, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
During a recent medical mission to Gaza, Peeperkorn visited Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, the sole partially functioning hospital in the north.
He witnessed scenes of chaos and referred to the hospital as a “humanitarian disaster zone,” with corridors, rooms, and even the chapel filled with patients and internally displaced individuals.
Efforts are being made to keep the remaining hospitals operational, as WHO officials stress the importance of protecting and restoring the health system. Peeperkorn emphasized, “We cannot afford to lose any more health facilities.”
The WHO has also called for humanitarian assistance in Gaza, citing obstacles faced by a joint mission on December 9.
The mission, involving WHO, the United Nations, and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, encountered delays at an Israeli military checkpoint, leading to the harassment, beating, and searching of health partners.
The health organization condemned the obstruction of ambulances and attacks on humanitarian workers, asserting that healthcare, including ambulances, is protected under international law and must be respected.
The latest report from Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry indicates a staggering toll, with 18,205 fatalities and 49,645 injuries. Over 60% of the victims are women and children.
The health situation for many Palestinians is described as critical, with a significant increase in respiratory infections and diarrhea among children under five.
The report also highlights other health issues, including the presence of lice, skin rashes, chickenpox, meningitis, jaundice, and various infectious and chronic diseases.
Amid these challenges, there are reports of Israeli forces storming the Kamal Adwan health facility in northern Gaza. WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier expressed concern about the forced evacuation of the hospital, putting patients, including neonates, on the streets.
