The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over Israel's decision to block multiple medical organizations from entering Gaza, a move that has impacted the delivery of crucial healthcare services in the region. This marks the first time entire health agencies have been denied access to the enclave during the ongoing conflict.
According to WHO, eight organizations of the EMT Coordination Cell, responsible for coordinating international emergency medical teams, reported that more than 50 specialist personnel were affected by the blockages. In August and September 2024, two organizations were denied access, impacting 25 highly specialized medical staff. In October, six partner organizations were also denied entry, affecting 28 specialized medical staff.
The specialists were intended to provide support for medical treatments, including surgeries, hemodialysis, and mental health services for health workers at key facilities such as the Nasser Medical Complex, the European Hospital in southern Gaza, and Al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza.
WHO expressed concerns about the repercussions of these denials on Gaza's already strained healthcare system. The organization highlighted a significant reduction in trauma care and surgeries supported by EMTs in Gaza, putting additional pressure on the already overburdened hospital staff.
With only 17 out of Gaza's 36 hospitals and 43% of primary care facilities operational, the healthcare needs in the region far exceed the system's capacity. WHO emphasized the essential role of EMTs in sustaining the operational capacity of the healthcare system in Gaza.
Recently, a UN inquiry accused Israel of implementing a 'concerted policy' aimed at destroying the healthcare system in Gaza during the conflict with Hamas, labeling the attacks as potential war crimes. Additionally, reports indicated that at least seven medical nongovernmental organizations had been prohibited from entering Gaza, following warnings from the United States urging Israel to address the dire humanitarian situation in the region or face potential consequences.
