Over the past two days, al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza has sadly experienced the death of more than 20 patients. This devastating loss comes as Israeli forces continue their raid on the facility, leading to concerns about the fate of those seeking medical care and shelter.
The Palestinian health ministry confirmed that 24 patients have died in the past 48 hours due to power cuts at the hospital. Vital medical equipment has stopped functioning, exacerbating the already critical situation. The power outage has impacted different departments within the hospital, leading to tragic consequences for patients in need of urgent care.
Muhammad Abu Salmiya, the director of al-Shifa Hospital, shared that 22 patients passed away overnight. As the hospital remains under siege, medical staff express deep concerns about the deteriorating conditions within the facility. The lack of power, food, and water has turned the medical compound into what one staff member called a “big prison” and a “mass grave” for those trapped inside.
Israeli forces allege that Hamas fighters are using tunnels beneath the hospital to stage attacks, but these claims have been denied by hospital officials and Hamas. The intense scrutiny on al-Shifa Hospital has amplified international alarm and raised questions about the safety of both patients and staff during this ongoing conflict.
The raid on the hospital has not only resulted in loss of life but has also caused significant damage to its infrastructure. The radiology, burns, and dialysis units have all been impacted, exacerbating the already dire conditions within the hospital. With more than half of Gaza’s hospitals already non-functional due to combat, damage, or shortages, this latest blow to al-Shifa Hospital further aggravates the already limited capacity to provide healthcare to those in need.
The situation in Gaza continues to escalate, with the blockade and military assault severely restricting essential supplies such as food, water, electricity, and fuel for the 2.3 million residents. Aid agencies warn of an impending humanitarian crisis in the territory as the shortages make it increasingly difficult to deliver crucial support to the population.
The United Nations has made efforts to address the fuel shortage, with Israel agreeing to allow two fuel trucks into Gaza daily. However, this falls far short of the amount needed to sustain basic functions like powering water systems, hospitals, and aid delivery.
The dire circumstances have forced more than 1.5 million people to be internally displaced. The lack of clean water, along with the collapse of sanitation systems, has created additional health risks for the population. Children, in particular, face immense suffering and are pleading for essentials like water and food.
As the conflict continues, it is imperative that efforts to protect medical facilities and ensure their functionality are prioritized. The international community must come together to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and work towards a peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life and suffering.