According to the World Health Organization Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, approximately 9,000 patients in Gaza are in critical need of evacuation for medical treatment abroad. The healthcare infrastructure in Gaza has nearly collapsed, with thousands requiring urgent care for conditions such as cancer, kidney dialysis, and injuries sustained during the conflict.
While over 3,400 patients have already been evacuated, many more are awaiting approval from Israeli authorities to leave the region for medical assistance. Tedros emphasized the importance of expediting the approval process, stating that every moment is crucial for these patients.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that the hospitals in Gaza, which are only partially functional, are struggling to provide limited services due to overwhelming patient numbers. Additionally, these facilities are facing critical shortages of fuel, medicines, medical supplies, and healthcare personnel.
Furthermore, the WHO has documented more than 400 attacks on healthcare infrastructure in the Gaza Strip as of March 12, impacting around 100 ambulances and close to 100 health facilities. Israel has accused Hamas of using civilians and medical facilities as shields, a claim that the militant group has denied.
