The health system in Gaza has been gravely impacted by ongoing Israeli military operations, particularly in the northern regions of the territory. World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus condemned the recent actions, stating that hospitals in Gaza have become “battlegrounds” under constant threat due to airstrikes and ground campaigns. The WHO has highlighted the damage to critical medical infrastructure, including Kamal Adwan Hospital, which has been rendered out of service following an Israeli raid. Patients from the facility were evacuated to nearby hospitals, including Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City and the Indonesian Hospital, which have also been targets of repeated attacks.
Raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital: Detention of Medical Staff and Patients
The raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, one of Gaza’s last major health facilities, has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of medical personnel and the ongoing provision of healthcare. Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, the hospital director, was detained during the raid along with several other individuals. Israel’s military stated that the hospital was being used by Hamas militants as a command center and that weapons were found in the area. Despite these claims, no evidence has been provided to substantiate the allegations, and hospital officials have firmly denied any militant activity within the hospital.
The detainment of Dr. Abu Safiya, who was recovering from injuries sustained while working at the hospital, has led to widespread calls for his immediate release. His family has publicly appealed to international organizations and governments to intervene, fearing for his safety and urging the global community to press for his return.
The Humanitarian Impact: Health Facilities Destroyed, Medical Services in Crisis
The attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital is part of a broader pattern of destruction affecting Gaza’s healthcare system. WHO’s Ghebreyesus reported that the Indonesian Hospital, which received patients from Kamal Adwan, is no longer operational due to extensive damage. With limited functioning hospitals remaining, the provision of medical care to Gaza’s civilian population has become increasingly difficult. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of essential medical supplies and staff shortages, as many medical workers have been displaced or injured in the attacks.
Four other health facilities in Gaza, including Al-Ahli and Al-Wafa Rehabilitation Hospital, have sustained significant damage in recent days, further straining the already overwhelmed healthcare system. WHO has called for an immediate ceasefire to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid and to ensure that medical workers and facilities can operate without fear of attack.
International Community Calls for Ceasefire and Protection of Healthcare Workers
The ongoing attacks on healthcare facilities have sparked outrage within the international community, with various humanitarian organizations and human rights groups demanding an end to the violence and increased protection for civilians and medical staff. WHO has stressed the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of medical services during times of conflict.
In addition to the damage to medical infrastructure, the health and well-being of Gaza’s population continue to suffer due to the lack of access to basic health services. The Israeli military has allowed the evacuation of some patients and medical personnel from affected hospitals, but the overall capacity to provide healthcare has been severely diminished.
Ongoing Conflict and the Need for Urgent International Action
As the conflict continues, the situation in Gaza remains dire. With healthcare facilities under siege and the civilian population facing increasing hardship, the international community is under growing pressure to intervene. Organizations such as the United Nations, WHO, and humanitarian aid groups are calling for immediate action to halt the violence and ensure that essential medical care can reach those in need.
The ongoing blockade on Gaza, combined with the military campaign, has created a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions. As the world watches, the need for a coordinated international response to protect the lives and rights of Gaza’s residents has never been more urgent.
