In a distressing development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a dire SOS as Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, ceases operations amidst the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. The Hamas-run health ministry reports that all hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip are now “out of service.”
WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed the alarming situation at Al-Shifa, emphasizing that it is no longer functioning as a hospital. The humanitarian organization expresses deep concern over the transformation of hospitals, traditionally safe havens, into scenes of death and despair. The Hamas-run health ministry reports at least six babies and nine other patients have died at Al-Shifa, with fuel shortages exacerbating the crisis.
Trapped by Israeli forces’ blockades, hospitals in northern Gaza are unable to provide adequate care. The situation is particularly dire at Al-Shifa, where power outages have endangered newborns, leading to at least two reported deaths. Thousands of Gazans seek shelter around Al-Shifa as the conflict rages on.
The Al-Quds hospital in Gaza City faces a similar fate due to a lack of generator fuel, as reported by the Palestinian Red Crescent. Israel has previously alleged that Gaza hospitals are used by Hamas for their operations, adding complexity to an already dire humanitarian crisis.
The Israel-Hamas war, marked as the deadliest in the region, commenced on October 7, with casualties on both sides. Israel’s response, including airstrikes and expanded ground operations, aims to dismantle Hamas and its military capabilities. The UN agencies report around 3,000 patients and staff trapped at Al-Shifa without adequate water and food, highlighting the urgency of international intervention.
The WHO head emphasizes the critical situation at Al-Shifa, citing three days without electricity, water, and poor internet, severely impacting essential care. Al-Shifa director Mohammad Abu Salmiya refutes Israel’s claims of delivering fuel, stating it would power generators for a minimal duration.
As the conflict intensifies, the WHO’s call for immediate action underscores the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where hospitals are struggling to provide life-saving care amidst power shortages and deteriorating conditions.
Sources By Agencies
